bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
O19.5 Assessing the Effectiveness of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination Programme in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Garland S M , Osborne S O , Young E J , Brotherton J M L , Tabrizi S N , Gertig D M , Jayasinghe Y
Published: July 2013

Background

Quadrivalent HPV vaccination has been available in Australia through the National HPV Vaccination Program since 2007. The VACCINE study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of the programme by assessing the prevalence of vaccine targeted HPV genotypes (HPV 6, 11, 16 and 18). We aim to detect any decrease in prevalence of vaccine-targeted HPV genotypes amongst young women in vaccine eligible cohorts and to independently measure vaccine coverage in young Victorian women.

Methods

Young Victorian women aged 18–25 are recruited using the social networking site Facebook. Participants complete an online questionnaire and those sexually active are asked to provide a self-collected vaginal swab. Swabs are genotyped using a Linear Array HPV genotyping test (Roche Diagnostics).

Results

To date, 623 (of 1570) females have been recruited into the study and 477 participants have completed the study. 71% (440) were sexually active and of these women 373/440 (85%) provided a self-collected swab, of which 75% were negative for HPV. Of the 95 cases positive for HPV, only 6 cases of HPV 16 have been recorded, and no cases of HPV 6, 11 or 18 have been identified. The prevalence of HPV16 (1.6%) is significantly lower than that detected from pre-vaccine age matched Victorian women cervical specimens (9.4%) (χ2(1)= 18.3,p< 0.001). Based on self-reported vaccination status, 85% of women aged 18–21 years old in our sample have received at least one dose of the HPV vaccine, compared with 83% for women aged 22–25. Cross protection against HPV 31 is also being seen (0.5% versus 5.6%, χ2(1)= 14.2,p< 0.001).

Conclusions

Preliminary data from the VACCINE study suggest a significant decline in the prevalence of vaccine-targeted HPV genotypes. These results support the hypothesis that the HPV vaccine programme is effective in reducing HPV genotypes 6, 11, 16 and 18 amongst populations offered the vaccine.
O19.6 Use of Surfactant Vesicles as a Potential Gonococcal Vaccine Delivery System to Generate Antibody Against Neisserial Lipooligosaccharide
Authors: Stein D , Zimmerman L , Park J , Stocker L , DeShong P
Published: July 2013

Background

To date, no one has been able to exploit the immunological potential of neisserial lipooligosaccharide (LOS) as a vaccine candidate.

Methods

We have developed a glycoconjugate vaccine (TRIAD) that contains native LOS derived fromNeisseria gonorrhoeaeF62)ΔlgtD (a strain that produces lacto-N-neotetraose LOS and a peptide (PADRE) that possesses the ability to bind to a large number of HLA class II molecules, inserted into a surfactant vesicle. TRIAD is a catanionic surfactant vesicle formulation and the resulting vesicle is stable at room temperature for years, unlike a typical liposome. TRIAD is so robust that it can be autoclaved without any appreciable loss of structural integrity.

Results

Using TRIAD that contained LOS and PADRE at a ratio of 10:1, and immunising with 2 μg of LOS equivalent, we were able to demonstrate that our vaccine induces a high titer anti-LOS antibody response, with the majority of the elicited antibody being IgG. Intraperitoneal immunisation of mice with our vaccine construct produced no observable adverse effects in mice, while intraperitoneal immunisation with equivalent amounts of purified LOS induced significant adverse effects.

Conclusions

Our surfactant vesicle platform possesses all of the advantages seen with traditional liposome formulations, without any of the inherent problems associated with liposome-mediated vaccines. This vaccine platform readily lends itself to further modifications in that it is possible to include additional neisserial proteins into the vaccine via a novel whole cell extraction protocol. We believe that this will allow us to generate a universal vaccine able to protect against all serotypes ofN. meningitidis.
O20.1 Two-Mode Analysis of HIV, HCV and Risk Behaviours: A Place-Based Analysis of Most At-Risk Populations in Winnipeg, Canada
Authors: Shaw S Y , Green C , Wylie J L
Published: July 2013

Background

The HIV epidemic has shown a considerable amount of heterogeneity, complicating the design and placement of prevention, intervention and treatment programmes. Place-based analyses providing specific information on pathogen prevalence, risk behaviours and other micro-level behaviours can help to target public health responses.

Methods

Data were from a cross-sectional survey of most-at-risk populations (MARPs) from Winnipeg, Canada. Respondents were recruited through respondent-driven sampling, and biological, behavioural and egocentric network data were collected. Respondents named locations where they frequented and where they engaged in risk behaviours, including the use of crack cocaine, injectable and non-injectable drug use, and solvents; and either seeking sex work clients or sex workers. Locations were geo-coded up to Statistics Canada dissemination areas. Two-mode network visualisation and centrality, degree, and betweenness measures were generated using UciNet (V.6).

Results

From a sample size of 600, nine locations were named by 10 or more respondents. The following results pertain only to these nine locations (N: 231). Locations corresponded to three “hot spots” in Winnipeg’s inner and outer core areas. Across the sample, HIV and HCV prevalence was 9.8% and 51.5%, respectively. Prevalence varied considerably by location, ranging from 0% to 15% for HIV and 20% to 70% for HCV. Degree ranged from 0.054 to 0.330, closeness from 0.178 to 0.411 and betweenness from 0.054 to 0.521. No association between prevalence of HIV and HCV and network metrics was found. Substantial heterogeneity in pathogen prevalence and risk behaviour was observed by location, while pathogen, risk and mixing characteristics of populations bridging the nine locations were made apparent by two-mode visualisation.

Conclusion

Two-mode analysis of egocentric network data revealed geographic clustering of risk behaviours, while at the same time demonstrating substantial mixing between high-risk bridge populations. Targeted prevention and intervention efforts can be aided by use of micro-level analyses.
O20.2 Social Networks of STI Patients Have Higher STI Prevalence Than Social Networks of Community Controls
Authors: Rosenberg N E , Pettifor A , Kamanga G , Bonongwe N , Mapanje C , Hoffman I , Martinson F , MIller W C
Published: July 2013

Background

Persons with sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV, are more likely to have sexual partners with STIs. It is not known whether persons with STIs are more likely to have social contacts with STIs. We compared the prevalence of HIV and STIs in the social networks of STI patients to the social networks of community controls.

Methods

The study was based at Kamuzu Central Hospital STI Unit from 2010–2012. Three groups of 45 “seeds” were enrolled: HIV-infected STI patients, HIV-uninfected STI patients, and community controls frequency matched on age, gender, and area. Seeds were asked to recruit < 5 “contacts.” HIV prevalence and STI prevalence among contacts were compared between arms using generalised estimating equations accounting for correlation by seed.

Results

Mean number of contacts recruited was 1.3 for HIV-infected clinic seeds, 1.8 for HIV-uninfected clinic seeds, and 2.3 for community seeds (N = 243). The majority of contacts (89%) had never been in a sexual relationship with the recruiting seed. HIV prevalence was higher in HIV-infected clinic seeds’ contacts (31%) compared to community seeds’ contacts (11%) (p = 0.009), but not in HIV-uninfected clinic seeds’ contacts (10%) compared to community seeds’ contacts (11%) (p > 0.9). STI syndrome prevalence was higher in both HIV-infected clinic seeds’ contacts (18%) and HIV-uninfected clinic seeds’ contacts (26%) compared to community seeds’ contacts (8%) (p = 0.04). Differences between arms remained significant for both HIV and STI prevalence when analysis was restricted to non-sexual contacts.

Conclusion

Seeds with HIV were more likely to have networks with higher HIV prevalence and seeds with STIs were more likely to have networks with higher STI prevalence, even among non-sexual contacts. Research is needed to understand the social and epidemiologic mechanisms underlying these findings. Social contact recruitment at an STI clinic is one promising way of identifying persons in need of HIV and STI services.
O20.3 Sex in Seattle: Mechanistic Modeling of Sexual Partnership Dynamics
Authors: Glasser J W , Chesson H W , Glick S N , Owusu-Edusei K , Gift T L , Aral S O
Published: July 2013

Background

To devise sexually-transmitted disease (STD) surveillance and intervention strategies based on the importance of individuals or relationships in pathogen diffusion, mechanistic models of sexual partnerships are needed.We modelled heterosexual partnerships, chose functions and estimated parameters by re-analysing information from a 2003–04 random-digit dialling survey among Seattle residents.

Methods

We created artificial populations having the joint distributions of age and gender from a recent U.S. census. We used partnership formation rates calculated from the complete histories of male and female survey participants with and without partners to determine stochastically at each time-step who in the population was eligible to form new partnerships; these were matched according to age preferences from the National Health and Social Life Survey using the algorithm for which Shapley received the 2012 Nobel Prize in Economics. Similarly, we used durations from survival analyses of partnerships formed by survey participants to schedule the dissolution of new and reschedule the dissolution of existing partnerships when concurrent partners would replace existing ones.

Results

Most modelled partnerships are short-lived, as are the gaps and overlaps between them. This finding matches those from several published studies. Heterosexual adolescents and young adults form and dissolve concurrent partnerships at approximately 0.1 and 10 times, respectively, the rates at which they form and dissolve exclusive ones. Consequently, concurrent partnerships are ephemeral relative to exclusive ones. We estimate that, by age 45 years, approximately 20% of men and women have had concurrent partners, but at any particular time, most have 0 or 1 partners.

Conclusions

Few individuals have multiple partners at any time, but lifetime partner numbers increase with age at gender-specific rates. The risk of infection increases with the number of partners; thus, public health messages that refer to concurrent partners may not adequately address the STD risk associated with lifetime partner numbers.
O20.4 Daily Variation in Feelings of Intimacy Predict Incident STI Within a Prospective Cohort of Urban Adolescent Females
Authors: Matson P A , Chung S , Gaydos C A , Ellen J M
Published: July 2013

Background

Previous work has illustrated daily variation in feelings of intimacy, perceptions of partner concurrency (PPC) and STD risk perception (PRSTD), indicating these are dynamic attributes within adolescent romantic relationships. Our objective was to examine whether daily variations in these STI-associated feelings and perceptions predicted incident chlamydia and/or gonorrhoea infection.

Methods

A clinic and community venue recruited cohort of females (N = 122), 16–19yrs at baseline, completed daily diaries on feelings and perceptions about each current sex partner on a Smartphone continuously for 18 months. Urine was tested for chlamydia and gonorrhoea quarterly. As means for feelings of trust, closeness and commitment were high in these relationships, data were coded to indicate any decrease in feelings from the previous day. PRSTD and PCC were reverse coded to indicate any increase. GEE was used to account for the correlation among repeated measures within relationships.

Results

For each day there was a decrease in trust there was a 52% increase in the odds of being infected with an STI at follow-up [OR: 1.52, 95% CI: 1.20–1.91, p < 0.001]. For each day there was a decrease in closeness the odds of being infected with an STI at follow-up increased by 44% [OR: 1.44, 95% CI: 0.97–2.12, p = 0.067]. Neither an increase in PRSTD or PPC nor decrease in commitment was associated with an STI. An index was created to examine the cumulative effect of variation in feelings and perceptions and found evidence of co-variation. A change in an additional feeling or perception that day increased odds of an STI by 16% [OR: 1.16, 95% CI: 1.02–1.33, p = 0.027].

Conclusions

A decrease in feelings of intimacy toward a partner may be a more sensitive indicator of STI risk than PRSTD, PPC or commitment. The next generation of interventions for youth will need strategies to address feelings of intimacy within adolescent romantic relationships.
O20.5 Patterns of Sexual and Social Mixing Among Heterosexual Couples Living Together in England: Analyses of a Probability Sample Survey
Authors: Prah P , Mercer C H , Johnson A M
Published: July 2013

Background

Patterns of social and sexual mixing are a major determinant of STI transmission. In particular, discordant mixing is an important driver of STI dissemination when high risk populations mix with low risk populations. However patterns of mixing are poorly understood.

Method

We analysed data from a probability sample survey of households in the Health Survey for England 2010. 1,891 heterosexual couples living together were included, all individuals were aged 16–69 years. Self-completion questionnaires were used to collect data on previous STI diagnosis/es, same-sex experience, condom use, age at first sex, and number of sexual partners.

Results

Males were on average 2 years older than their female partners, though this age difference ranged from a mean of 0 years in those aged 16–24 to a mean of 3 years in those aged over 55. 85.1% of couples had matching characteristics of reporting previous STI diagnosis/es. After adjusting for age, socio-economic class and marital status, an association was found between males reporting previous STI diagnosis/es and their female partners also reporting the same, AOR: 3.02 (95% CI: 1.78–5.13). Males who reported 10+ partners were more likely to be in a couple with a female who also reported this AOR: 2.71 (95% CI: 1.79–4.11). A positive correlation was found between men and women with respect to their age at first sex. There was also a correlation in socio-economic class but with greatest mixing between intermediate and higher/lower categories. A correlation was also found with respect to education level and drinking alcohol.

Conclusion

We found evidence of significant levels of assortative mixing amongst heterosexual couples living together in England with respect to reporting previous STI diagnosis/es, numbers of partners, frequent drinking, socio-economic class and education. These analyses of probability sample survey data support the observed skewed distribution of STI transmission in the population.
O20.6 Sexual Partnership Patterns Among Young People in Rural Tanzania
Authors: Doyle A M , Changalucha J , Weiss H A , Watson-Jones D , Hayes R J , Zaba B , Ross A
Published: July 2013

Background

Sexual partnership patterns influence risk of STI transmission. We describe the pattern of partnerships reported by youth in a survey in rural Tanzania and calculate the UNAIDS recommended measure of concurrency.

Methods

In 2007/8, sexual partnership histories were collected, through a face-to-face questionnaire, from 13,814 15–30 y-olds (90% aged 19–25 y) in 20 communities, in Mwanza, Tanzania. Partnership patterns of sexually active participants were described based on reported dates of first and last intercourse with their last 3 partners in the past year. One-off partnerships had the same date of first and last intercourse. Point prevalence of concurrency was calculated at 6 months prior to the survey.

Results

Females and males had mean age of 21 and 22 years respectively. In the year prior to the survey, 87% of females and 79% of males reported at least one sexual partner, and 15% of females and 44% of males reported > 3 partners. Among those reporting 1–3 partners, 47% of one-off partnerships started within 4 months of the survey suggesting reporting bias and/or censoring of data. Only 3% of females reported > 2 new partners in the previous year compared to 26% of males, and 3% of females reported > 1 partner in the last 4 weeks compared to 18% of males. The point prevalence of concurrency was 2.3% for females and 10.7% for males. Partnership patterns varied by sex and marital status (Table). The ‘Previously married’ group were the most likely to report multiple partners.

Conclusions

High levels of multiple and concurrent partnerships were reported by males and the ‘previously married’. Further analysis of the characteristics of the specific partners and partnerships will be completed to understand the risk associated with each pattern of partnerships. Analyses will also be adjusted for the bias introduced by restricting questions to the last 3 partners.

Abstract O20.6 Table 1

Reported patterns of sexual partnership (last 3 partners in past year) by sex and marital status

Never marriedCurrently marriedPreviously marriedReported pattern of partnerships (%)MalesN = 3951FemalesN = 1740Males N = 2458FemalesN = 3689MalesN = 215FemalesN = 608Abstinent20.916.20.040.56.110.7Single partner35.771.250.693.419.155.3Multiple partners43.412.749.16.174.934.0- no overlap in timing of partnerships22.66.64.71.434.020.1- overlap in timing of at least 2 partnerships20.75.944.44.740.913.5- timing unknown0.10.30.20.030.00.5
O21.1 Mycoplasma Genitalium Infectious Load and Treatment Failure Due to Selected Macrolide Resistance
Authors: Twin J , Bradshaw C , Garland S , Bissessor M , Chen M , Walker J , Fairley C , Hocking J , Tabrizi S
Published: July 2013

Background

Treatment failure due the development of macrolide resistance seen at Melbourne Sexual Health Centre (MSHC) has risen from 15 to 46% over the last six years (p < 0.01). Macrolide resistance is conferred through point mutations in the M. genitalium 23S rRNA gene. Treatment failure with 1g azithromycin is either due to an infection with a pre-existing resistant strain or development of resistance during treatment, but the mechanism is not yet fully understood.

Methods

A subset of M. genitalium positive cases seen at MSHC between 2007–9 (n = 67) and 2012 (n = 70) underwent detection of resistance mutations via high resolution melt analysis, with real-time PCR quantifying M. genitalium infectious load.

Result

Of those M. genitalium cases that successfully responded to 1g azithromycin, the pre-treatment median loads for 2007–9 (n = 40) and 2012 (n = 48) were 8.5 x 102 and 1.7 x 103 copies per reaction respectively. For M. genitalium strains that possessed resistance in the pre-treatment sample, the loads were remarkably similar to those successfully treated, with 2.2 x 103 copies per reaction detected for 2007–9 (n = 9) and 5.7 x 103 copies for 2012 (n = 22). However, for M. genitalium cases that appeared to develop resistance following treatment, (ie. mutations only detected in follow-up test of cure sample), there was a significantly higher load detected with 3.1 x 104 copies per reaction for 2007–9 (n = 8) and 1.8 x 104 copies for 2012 (n = 8), when compared to either treatment success cases or those with baseline resistance (one sided p < 0.01).

Conclusions

The higher infectious load in pre-treatment M. genitalium cases that developed detectable resistance after 1g of azithromycin compared to those with baseline resistance and those cured raises the possibility that heterotypic resistance and/or induced resistance may be contributing to macrolide failure in M. genitalium. These findings have implications for current recommended treatment for M. genitalium.
O21.2 Effect of Mutations inpilQon the Susceptibility ofNeisseria Gonorrhoeaeto Cephalosporins
Authors: Trees D , Pettus K , Johnson S
Published: July 2013

Background

The susceptibility ofN. gonorrhoeaeto beta-lactam antibiotics is determined by mutations or the presence of mosaic sequence inpenA, which codes for PBP2. The level of susceptibility is influenced by the presence of mutations inponA,mtrR,por, andpilQ. Here we investigate the potential for isolates ofN.gonorrhoeaethat give elevated MIC values to both penicillin and cephalosporins to mutate to still higher MIC values.

Methods

Mutations in gonococcal isolates were determined by DNA sequencing. MIC values were determined by agar dilution. Mutants exhibiting higher MIC values were selected on GC base agar that contained either a gradient or uniform concentration of cefpodoxime or ceftriaxone.

Results

Examination of mutants ofN. gonorrhoeaewith exhibited elevated MIC values to cephalosporins revealed SPL4 3–4. Unlike previous, similar mutants, SPL4 3–4 did not possess additional mutations inpenA. Genetic transformation experiments and genomic sequencing indicated the presence of a two base insertion mutation inpilQthat created a termination codon at amino acid 159 which resulted in a truncated protein and an increase in the ceftriaxone MIC from 0.03 to 0.5 ug/ml. Additional transformation and sequencing experiments using amplifiedpilQDNA from SPL4 3–4 confirmed that the insertion mutation inpilQwas responsible for the increased resistance to cephalosporins as well as to penicillin. Further experimentation by amplification mutagenesis ofpilQwith Taq polymerase yielded three additionalpilQmutants which exhibited increased MICs to cephalosporins, and all caused premature termination of the translation of thepilQprotein.

Conclusion

Most of the studies examining increased MICs to cephalosporins in the gonococcus have focused on additional mutations in a mosaicpenAgene. However, in this study we have been able to generate mutations inpilQthat resulted in increased MICs. Future studies will look for similar mutations in gonococcal clinical isolates.
Forest edge effects on Quercus reproduction within naturally regenerated mixed broadleaf stands
Authors: Lhotka John M. , Stringer Jeffrey W.
Published: July 2013

This paper explores the influence of forest edge on the development of tree reproduction and the use of edge as a silvicultural tool for manipulating regeneration outcomes. Oak (Quercus spp.) reproduction was sampled 9 years following edge establishment along transects extending from 8 m into clearcut openings to 40 m into the adjacent intact forest. Trends showed that oak reproduction height in the intact forest was inversely related to distance from edge up to 20 m into the intact forest. Observed oak reproduction densities were greater within 20 m of edge than in distance intervals further into the intact forest. Tree-ring analysis of 106 seedlings was used to evaluate temporal responses associated with edge development. Cross-sectional analysis indicated a mean age of 13 years, 3 years prior to edge establishment. Increased growth was associated with edge establishment, and 10-year radial growth following edge creation showed a similar spatial pattern as height with oak seedlings within 20 m of the edge exhibiting significantly greater growth than those occurring furthest into the intact forest. This study suggests that forest edge can be used to provide environments useful in building reproductive capacity for species like oaks that require advance reproduction.
ROBUST H∞ FILTERING FOR A CLASS OF NONLINEAR UNCERTAIN SINGULAR SYSTEMS WITH TIME-VARYING DELAY
Authors: QIU JIQING , XING ZIRUI , LI LI , YANG MOHAN , LI YI
Published: July 2013

This paper focuses on the problem of robust H∞ filtering for a class of nonlinear uncertain singular systems with time-varying delay. First of all, the definition of robust H∞ filter is given. Considering the nonlinear disturbance link to uncertain singular systems with time-varying delay effects, the design idea of full-order robust H∞ filter based on the Lyapunov stability theory is presented. Under the condition that nonlinear uncertain functions satisfy Lipschitz condition, the sufficient condition under which nonlinear uncertain delayed filtering error singular systems are asymptotically stable and satisfy the robust H∞ performance is obtained by Lyapunov stability theory and linear matrix inequality (LMI) methods. Finally, two numerical examples are given to show the applicability of the proposed method.
AN IMPROVED TECHNIQUE FOR PRIVACY PRESERVING CLUSTERING BASED ON DAUBECHIES-2 WAVELET TRANSFORM
Authors: DISHABI MOHAMMAD REZA EBRAHIMI , AZGOMI MOHAMMAD ABDOLLAHI , RAHMANI AMIR MASOUD
Published: July 2013

Having high accuracy results in data clustering and preserving the privacy of data are among the main challenges in privacy preserving clustering (PPC) techniques. High dimensionality of data is another challenge in PPC, which reduces the efficiency of the data mining algorithms. Therefore, PPC algorithms are divided into two categories. The algorithms in the first category protect the data privacy and do not reduce the data dimensionality whereas the algorithms in the second category not only preserve the data privacy but also reduce the data dimensionality. The techniques based on geometric data transformation methods (GTDMs) are related to the first category whereas the techniques based on random projection (RP), discrete cosine transform (DCT) and Haar wavelet transform (HWT) are related to the second category. The GTDMs algorithms do not reduce the data dimensionality. This is the main drawback of this algorithm which causes reduction in the performance of data mining algorithm in large datasets. The technique based on Haar wavelet transform automatically recognizes the dimensionality of the transformed data by using data energy. However, the main problem is the nature of Haar wavelet, which has one vanishing point. In this paper, we show that using Daubechies-2 wavelet, which has two vanishing points, increases the clustering quality. Therefore, to fix the drawback of the PPC algorithm based on Haar wavelet, we introduce a new algorithm to improve both the clustering quality and the privacy measure of data by using Daubechies-2 wavelet transform (D2WT). The results of experiments using several datasets, comparing the new algorithm with other existing techniques, are also presented in this paper.
MODEL SELECTION OF C-SUPPORT VECTOR MACHINES BASED ON MULTI-THREADING GENETIC ALGORITHM
Authors: SHI GUO-YOU , LIU SHUANG
Published: July 2013

Since generalization performance of support vector machines depends a lot on parameter values of kernel functions, it is important to select optimal parameter values. How to finish optimal model selection of C-Support Vector Machines (C-SVM) with satisfiable speed is the main focus of this paper. We can hardly finish training process for large data sets with traditional methods because of long time-consuming cost. To take advantage of multi-threading and genetic algorithms, we studied a hybrid model selection method to select C and sigma of RBF kernel function for C-SVM classifier. This new method not only chooses global optimal parameters, but also saves training time based on parallel computing process. Experimental results show the efficiency and feasibility of the new method.
SUMS OF TWO SQUARES — PAIR CORRELATION AND DISTRIBUTION IN SHORT INTERVALS
Authors: SMILANSKY YOTAM
Published: July 2013

In this work we show that based on a conjecture for the pair correlation of integers representable as sums of two squares, which was first suggested by Connors and Keating and reformulated here, the second moment of the distribution of the number of representable integers in short intervals is consistent with a Poisson distribution, where "short" means of length comparable to the mean spacing between sums of two squares. In addition we present a method for producing such conjectures through calculations in prime power residue rings and describe how these conjectures, as well as the above stated result, may by generalized to other binary quadratic forms. While producing these pair correlation conjectures we arrive at a surprising result regarding Mertens' formula for primes in arithmetic progressions, and in order to test the validity of the conjectures, we present numerical computations which support our approach.
SYNTHESIS AND OPTICAL PROPERTIES OF CRYSTALLINE Si1-xGexOy NANORODS
Authors: ZHOU C. W. , CAI K. F. , YU D. H. , DU Y.
Published: July 2013

Crystalline Si 1-x Ge x O y nanorods were successfully synthesized by a chemical vapor deposition method using germanium as a starting material on Au -coated Si (111) substrate at ~ 1000°C in a flowing high-purity Ar atmosphere. Most of the nanorods have smooth surfaces, with diameters ranging from ~ 50 nm to 165 nm and lengths longer than several microns. Ultraviolet-visible absorption spectrum of the nanorods shows a maximum absorption wavelength at 203 nm. Photoluminescence spectrum of the nanorods exhibits an ultraviolet emission peak at 336 nm. The growth of the nanorods follows a vapor–liquid–solid mechanism.
Roles of Mitochondrial Dynamics under Stressful and Normal Conditions in Yeast Cells
Authors: Knorre Dmitry A. , Popadin Konstantin Y. , Sokolov Svyatoslav S. , Severin Fedor F.
Published: July 2013

Eukaryotic cells contain dynamic mitochondrial filaments: they fuse and divide. Here we summarize data on the protein machinery driving mitochondrial dynamics in yeast and also discuss the factors that affect the fusion-fission balance. Fission is a general stress response of cells, and in the case of yeast this response appears to be prosurvival. At the same time, even under normal conditions yeast mitochondria undergo continuous cycles of fusion and fission. This seems to be a futile cycle and also expensive from the energy point of view. Why does it exist? Benefits might be the same as in the case of sexual reproduction. Indeed, mixing and separating of mitochondrial content allows mitochondrial DNA to segregate and recombine randomly, leading to high variation in the numbers of mutations per individual mitochondrion. This opens a possibility for effective purifying selection-elimination of mitochondria highly contaminated by deleterious mutations. The beneficial action presumes a mechanism for removal of defective mitochondria. We argue that selective mitochondrial autophagy or asymmetrical distribution of mitochondria during cell division could be at the core of such mechanism.
Ferrocene Derivatives Carrying Urea, Thiourea, and Sulfonamide Moieties: Synthesis and Evaluation of Antibacterial and Antifungal Activities
Authors: Yavuz Serkan , Yıldırım Hilal
Published: July 2013

In the present study, some novel ferrocene derivatives carrying urea, thiourea, and sulfonamide groups were synthesized, and all compounds were characterized by spectral and elemental analyses. These compounds were screened for their antibacterial activities and also their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) against Gram‐positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis) and Gram‐negative bacteria (Klebsiella pneumonia and Escherichia coli) and antifungal activities against Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Candida albicans. Amongst the tested compounds, 4b, 4c, 5b, and 6b displayed excellent antimicrobial activity.
Sleep and Military Members: Emerging Issues and Nonpharmacological Intervention
Authors: Brown Cary A. , Berry Robyn , Schmidt Ashley
Published: July 2013

Background. Many individuals who work in the military experience sleep deficiency which presents a significant problem given the nature of their work. The cause of their sleep problems is likely multifactorial, stemming from the interplay between their personal health, habits and lifestyle juxtaposed with the stress of their military work such as emotional and physical trauma experienced in service.Objective. To present an overview of sleep deficiency in military members (MMs) and review of nonpharmacological treatment options.Discussion. Although there are a number of promising nonpharmacological treatment options available for people working in the military who experience problems sleeping, testing interventions within the context of the military are still in the early stages. Further research utilizing rigorous design and standardized, context appropriate outcome measures is needed to help treat this burgeoning problem.
Bioinspired Load Balancing in Large-Scale WSNs Using Pheromone Signalling
Authors: Caliskanelli Ipek , Harbin James , Indrusiak Leandro Soares , Mitchell Paul , Polack Fiona , Chesmore David
Published: July 2013

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) consist of multiple, distributed nodes each with limited resources. With their strict resource constraints and application-specific characteristics, WSNs contain many challenging tradeoffs. This paper proposes a bioinspired load balancing approach, based on pheromone signalling mechanisms, to solve the tradeoff between service availability and energy consumption. We explore the performance consequences of the pheromone-based load balancing approach using (1) a system-level simulator, (2) deployment of real sensor testbeds to provide a competitive analysis of these evaluation methodologies. The effectiveness of the proposed algorithm is evaluated with different scenario parameters and the required performance evaluation techniques are investigated on case studies based on sound sensors.
On a Family of Multivariate Modified Humbert Polynomials
Authors: Aktaş Rabia , Erkuş-Duman Esra
Published: July 2013

This paper attempts to present a multivariable extension of generalized Humbert polynomials. The results obtained here include various families of multilinear and multilateral generating functions, miscellaneous properties, and also some special cases for these multivariable polynomials.
Open Tracheostomy after Aborted Percutaneous Approach due to Tracheoscopy Revealing Occult Tracheal Wall Ulcer
Authors: Schweiger John , Sprenker Collin , Mangar Devanand , Karlnoski Rachel , Pullakhandam Naga , Camporesi Enrico M.
Published: July 2013

Tracheostomy is a common procedure for intensive care patients requiring prolonged mechanical ventilation. In this case report, we describe a 78-year-old female patient admitted for an aneurysm of the cerebral anterior communicating artery. Following immediate endovascular coiling, she remained ventilated and was transferred to the neurological intensive care unit. On postoperative day ten, a percutaneous tracheostomy (PCT) was requested; however, a large ulcer or possible tracheoesophageal fistula was identified on the posterior tracheal wall following bronchoscopic assessment of the trachea. Therefore, the requested PCT procedure was aborted. An open tracheostomy in the operating room was completed; however, due to the position and depth of the ulcer, a reinforced endotracheal tube (ETT) was placed via the tracheostomy. Four days later, the reinforced ETT was replaced with a Shiley distal extended tracheostomy tube to bypass the ulceration. Careful inspection and evaluation of the tracheostomy site before PCT prevented a potentially life-threatening issue in our patient.
HER Catalytic Activity of Electrodeposited Ni‐P Nanowires under the Influence of Magnetic Field
Authors: Lee Hung-Bin , Tsau Jiun-Chen , Lee Chun-Ying
Published: July 2013

Nickel alloy electrodes both in plane and nanowire morphologies were fabricated by electrodeposition in sulfamate bath. With the increasing concentration of phosphorous acid in the electrolyte, the P content in the deposition increased accordingly. In the meantime, the grain refined and even became amorphous in microstructure as the P content was raised. For the nanowire electrode, vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) measurement showed that its coercivity was anisotropic and decreased with P‐content. In addition, the easy axis for magnetization of the electrode was parallel to the axial direction of nanowire. The electrocatalytic activity measurement of the electrode in 0.5 M H2SO4 electrolyte showed that the nanowire electrode had higher activity than the plane one, and the alloying of P in Ni electrode raised its hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) performance. The enhanced performance of nanowire electrode was attributed to the smaller and more uniform hydrogen bubbles generated in HER reaction. Finally, the applied magnetic field (3.2 T) improved significantly the HER activity of Ni but not Ni‐P electrode. By using nanowire morphology and applying magnetic field, the current density at −0.75 V HER stability test of the Ni electrode increased fourfold more than its plane counterpart.
State Consensus Analysis and Design for High-Order Discrete-Time Linear Multiagent Systems
Authors: Ge Yanrong , Chen Yangzhou , Zhang Yaxiao , He Zhonghe
Published: July 2013

The paper deals with the state consensus problem of high-order discrete-time linear multiagent systems (DLMASs) with fixed information topologies. We consider three aspects of the consensus analysis and design problem: (1) the convergence criteria of global state consensus, (2) the calculation of the state consensus function, and (3) the determination of the weighted matrix and the feedback gain matrix in the consensus protocol. We solve the consensus problem by proposing a linear transformation to translate it into a partial stability problem. Based on the approach, we obtain necessary and sufficient criteria in terms of Schur stability of matrices and present an analytical expression of the state consensus function. We also propose a design process to determine the feedback gain matrix in the consensus protocol. Finally, we extend the state consensus to the formation control. The results are explained by several numerical examples.
Intrathyroidal Parathyroid Carcinoma: Report of an Unusual Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vila Duckworth Lizette , Winter William E. , Vaysberg Mikhail , Moran César A. , Al-Quran Samer Z.
Published: July 2013

Intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma is an exceedingly rare cause of primary hyperparathyroidism. A 51-year-old African American female presented with goiter, hyperparathyroidism, and symptomatic hypercalcemia. Sestamibi scan revealed diffuse activity within an enlarged thyroid gland with uptake in the right thyroid lobe suggestive of hyperfunctioning parathyroid tissue. The patient underwent thyroidectomy and parathyroidectomy. At exploration, a 2.0 cm nodule in the usual location of the right inferior parathyroid was sent for intraoperative frozen consultation, which revealed only ectopic thyroid tissue. No parathyroid glands were identified grossly on the external aspect of the thyroid. Interestingly, postoperative parathyroid hormone levels normalized after removal of the thyroid gland. Examination of the thyroidectomy specimen revealed a 1.4 cm parathyroid nodule located within the parenchyma of the right superior thyroid, with capsular and vascular invasion and local infiltration into surrounding thyroid tissue. We present only the eighth reported case of intrathyroidal parathyroid carcinoma and review the literature.
Incarcerated Trocar Site Herniation of the Small Bowel following Laparoscopic Myomectomy
Authors: Kondo William , Zomer Monica Tessmann , Braga-Baiak Andresa , de Azevedo Rafael Menezes
Published: July 2013

Small bowel herniation through the fascial defect created by the entry of trocars is one of the major complications of the laparoscopic surgery. In this paper, we describe a 42-year-old woman developing an incarcerated trocar site herniation of the small bowel following laparoscopic myomectomy and treated by laparoscopic approach.
Emergency Liver Resection with Staplers for Spontaneous Liver Haemorrhage in a Patient Receiving Anticoagulant Therapy
Authors: Kutlutürk Koray , Soyer Vural , Dirican Abuzer , Unal Bulent , Aydin Cemalettin , Kayaalp Cuneyt , Yilmaz Sezai
Published: July 2013

Introduction. Emergency liver resection during active bleeding in a patient who takes anticoagulant therapy is a complicated and high-risk surgery.Aim. We described a technique that is combination of staplers, total hepatic vascular occlusion, and hemostatic agent (TachoSil) application for safe and quick hepatectomy.Patient and Method. A 72-year-old woman who uses warfarin regularly due to valvuloplasty admitted emergency unit with abdominal pain and shock. At admission, her hemoglobin, hematocrit, and INR values were 5.2 g/dL, 14.9%, and 6.7, respectively. Radiologic evaluation revealed abdominal free fluid and a liver lesion on segments V, VI, and VII. Emergency laparotomy was required. There was an active bleeding from a liver hematoma that could not be controlled by packing, and an urgent hepatic resection was required. Under total hepatic vascular occlusion, segments V, VI, and VII were resected with endoscopic nonvascular staplers. Cut surface of the liver was coagulated with bipolar cautery and covered with a hemostatic material.Results. Hepatectomy took six minutes, and the duration of surgery was 80 minutes. There was no complication and no transfusion required after surgery, and the patient was discharged on 8th day, uneventfully.Conclusion. Emergency hepatectomy with staplers, under vascular control with hemostatic agents, provided a rapid and safe surgery.
Application of Natural Element Method in Numerical Simulation of Crack Propagation
Authors: Weidong Wang , Cheng Gang , Zhang Dunfu , Gai Shanshan
Published: July 2013

The properties of interpolation of nodal data, ease of imposing essential boundary conditions, and the computational efficiency are some of the most important advantages of natural element method based on the non-Sibsonian interpolation over other meshless methods based on the moving least squares approximants. Accurate imposition of essential boundary conditions is accomplished directly by constructing vector of the displacement field by using non-Sibsonian interpolation method, which is based on the Voronoi diagram and its dual Delaunay tessellation. The discrete control equations of natural element method are developed by utilizing the variational principle of elastic theory and combining the natural element method with the theory of the linear elastic fracture mechanics. Without the connectivity information of elements, the burdensome remeshing, which is used in finite element method, is avoided in the present natural element method. The analysis of crack propagation is simplified dramatically. The numerical examples reveal the advantages and effectiveness of the present method.
Synthesis of Ceramics in Different Colors from Industrial Waste
Authors: Doynov Mihail , Dimitrov Tsvetan , Kokkori Maria
Published: July 2013

The synthesis of arsenic-free ceramics from industrial waste is studied. Samples of waste containing siliceous material passed the exploitation leap-guard layer shift reactor whose main oxide is -Al2O3and, with the addition of natural raw materials and pure oxide, arsenic-free ceramics were synthesized with thermal and electrical properties related to the main phase of spinel group minerals; solid solutions were also formed in the process of synthesis. Insulating properties were established by successive heating and cooling of the specimen for six cycles. Electrical insulating properties were established by the method of resistance to arcing. The relative density was determined by hydrostatic method and diffusion lines of molecules at the main phase were characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis. The experimental procedures followed in this study allowed mixing on a molecular level due to the small dimensions of the crystallite which in turn explains the relatively high density.
Victimization, Urbanicity, and the Relevance of Context: School Routines, Race and Ethnicity, and Adolescent Violence
Authors: Peguero Anthony A. , Portillos Edwardo L. , Hong Jun S. , González Juan Carlos , Kahle Lindsay L. , Shekarkhar Zahra
Published: July 2013

The United States is undergoing a historical racial and ethnic demographic shift. There is limited criminological research exploring if and how these changes influence variation in the relationship between routine activity theory and adolescent violence. Although the link between routine activities and victimization has been tested and well established, criminologists have questioned if routine activities can explain adolescent violence across different social contexts. Prior research demonstrates that there are potential nuances in the theoretical connections between routine activities and victimization, particularly when considering race and ethnicity. This study builds on previous research by questioning if the elements of routine activities predict victimization across predominately urban, rural, and suburban schools. The implications of the relevance of school context in the relationships between routine activities and adolescent victimization will also be discussed more generally.
Bayesian Compressive Sensing as Applied to Directions-of-Arrival Estimation in Planar Arrays
Authors: Carlin Matteo , Rocca Paolo , Oliveri Giacomo , Massa Andrea
Published: July 2013

The Bayesian compressive sensing (BCS) is applied to estimate the directions of arrival (DoAs) of narrow-band electromagnetic signals impinging on planar antenna arrangements. Starting from the measurement of the voltages induced at the output of the array elements, the performance of the BCS-based approach is evaluated when data are acquired at a single time instant and at consecutive time instants, respectively. Different signal configurations, planar array geometries, and noise conditions are taken into account, as well.
Cardiac Troponin Elevation Predicts Mortality in Patients Undergoing Orthotopic Liver Transplantation
Authors: Snipelisky David , Donovan Sean , Levy Michael , Satyanarayana Raj , Shapiro Brian
Published: July 2013

Introduction. While patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) have high cardiovascular event rates, preoperative risk stratification may not necessarily predict those susceptible patients. Troponin T (TnT) may help predict patients at risk for cardiovascular complications.Methods. Consecutive patients undergoing OLT at Mayo Clinic in Florida between 1998 and 2010 who had TnT obtained within 10 days following surgery were included. Three groups were compared based on TnT level: (1) normal (TnT≤0.01 ng/mL), (2) intermediate (TnT 0.02–0.11 ng/mL), and (3) elevated (TnT>0.11 ng/mL). Overall and cardiovascular mortality was assessed.Results. Of the 78 patients included, there was no difference in age, gender, severity of liver disease, and echocardiographic findings. Patients in the normal and intermediate TnT groups had a lower overall mortality rate (14.3% and 0%, resp.) when compared with those with elevated TnT (50%;P=0.001). Patients in the elevated TnT group had a cardiovascular mortality rate of 37.5% compared with 1.4% in the other groups combined (P<0.01). The elevated TnT group had a much higher mortality rate when compared with those in the intermediate group (P<0.0001).Conclusion. TnT may accurately help risk stratify patients in the early postoperative setting to better predict cardiovascular complications.
A Crossing Lemma for Annular Regions and Invariant Sets with an Application to Planar Dynamical Systems
Authors: Pascoletti Anna , Zanolin Fabio
Published: July 2013

We present a topological result, namedcrossing lemma, dealing with the existence of a continuum which crosses a topological space between a pair of “opposite” sides. This topological lemma allows us to obtain some fixed point results. In the works of Pascoletti et al., 2008, and Pascoletti and Zanolin, 2010, we have widely exposed the crossing lemma for planar regions homeomorphic to a square, and we have also presented some possible applications to the theory of topological horseshoes and to the study of chaotic-like dynamics for planar maps. In this work, we move from the framework of the generalized rectangles to two other settings (annular regions and invariant sets), trying to obtain similar results. An application to a model of fluid mixing is given.