bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variation of Photosynthesis, Fatty Acid Composition, ATPase and Acid Phosphatase Activities, and Anatomical Structure of Two Tea (Camellia sinensis (L.) O. Kuntze) Cultivars in Response to Fluoride
Authors: Wang L. X. , Tang J. H. , Xiao B. , Yang Y. J. , Liu J.
Published: August 2013

The changes of photosynthetic parameters, water use efficiency (WUE), fatty acid composition, chlorophyll (Chl) content, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, ATPase and acid phosphatase activities, fluoride (F) content, and leaf anatomical structure of two tea cultivars, “Pingyangtezao” (PY) and “Fudingdabai” (FD), after F treatments were investigated. The results show that net photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (gs), and transpiration rate (E) significantly decreased in both cultivars after 0.3 mM F treatment, but FD had higher Pn, gs, and WUE and lower E than PY. Chl content in PY significantly decreased after 0.2 and 0.3 mM F treatments, while no significant changes were observed in FD. The proportions of shorter chain and saturated fatty acids increased and those of longer chain and unsaturated fatty acids decreased in both cultivars under F treatments. The contents of MDA increased after F treatments but were higher in PY than in FD. In addition, F treatments decreased the activities of ATPase and acid phosphatase and increased F content in both cultivars; however, compared with PY, FD showed higher enzymatic activities and lower F content in roots and leaves. Leaf anatomical structure in FD indicated that cells in leaf midrib region were less injured by F than in PY.
Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction of Total Phenolic Compounds from Inula helenium
Authors: Wang Jin , Zhao Yong-Ming , Tian Ya-Ting , Yan Chun-Lin , Guo Chun-Yan
Published: August 2013

Ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) of phenolic compounds from Inula helenium was studied. Effects of ethanol concentration, ultrasonic time, solid‐liquid ratio, and number of extractions were investigated. An orthogonal array was constructed to optimize UAE process. The optimized extraction conditions were as follows: ethanol concentration, 30%; solid‐liquid ratio, 1 : 20; number of extractions, 2 times; extraction time, 30 min. Under the optimal conditions, the yield of total phenolic compounds and chlorogenic acid was 6.13 ± 0.58 and 1.32 ± 0.17 mg/g, respectively. The results showed that high amounts of phenolic compounds can be extracted from I. helenium by ultrasound‐assisted extraction technology.
Evaluation of Extended Interval Dosing Aminoglycosides in the Morbidly Obese Population
Authors: Ross Ashley L. , Tharp Jennifer L. , Hobbs Gerald R. , McKnight Richard , Cumpston Aaron
Published: August 2013

Aminoglycoside dosing has been studied in the obese population, typically recommending an adjusted weight utilizing a 40% dosing weight correction factor (IBW + 0.4 × (TBW–IBW)). These studies included limited numbers of morbidly obese patients and were not done in the era of extended interval aminoglycoside dosing. Here, we report a retrospective evaluation of morbidly obese patients receiving gentamicin or tobramycin at our hospital. The objective of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the commonly recommended adjusted weight for weight-based dosing. There were 31 morbidly obese patients who received gentamicin or tobramycin 5–7 mg/kg every 24 hours using a 40% dosing weight correction factor. Our institution utilizes 16-hour postdose concentrations to monitor extended interval aminoglycosides. Twenty-two of the 31 patients (71%) achieved an appropriate serum drug concentration. Four patients (13%) were found to be supratherapeutic and 5 patients (16%) subtherapeutic. The only variable that correlated with supratherapeutic levels was older age (P=0.0378). Our study helps to validate the current dosing weight correction factor (40%) in the morbidly obese population. We recommend caution when dosing aminoglycosides in morbidly obese patients who are of older age.
Comparison ofIn VitroandIn SituMethods for Studying Lipolysis
Authors: Ghorbani Ahmad , Abedinzade Mahmood
Published: August 2013

Lipolysis is a highly regulated process and is controlled by nervous system, hormones, and paracrine/autocrine factors. Dysregulation of lipolysis is associated with some pathophysiological conditions including diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and obesity. Nowadays, special attention isthereforepaid to study lipolysis using different experimental models. This review summarizes the current experimental methods for studying lipolysis. Culture of preadipocyte cell lines, use of differentiated stroma-vascular cells, primary culture of adipocyte, organ culture of adipose tissue, and microdialysis technique are the most widely used techniques to study lipolysis. The advantages and limitations of using these methods are discussed.
Scale-Specific Multifractal Medical Image Analysis
Authors: Braverman Boris , Tambasco Mauro
Published: August 2013

Fractal geometry has been applied widely in the analysis of medical images to characterize the irregular complex tissue structures that do not lend themselves to straightforward analysis with traditional Euclidean geometry. In this study, we treat the nonfractal behaviour of medical images over large-scale ranges by considering their box-counting fractal dimension as a scale-dependent parameter rather than a single number. We describe this approach in the context of the more generalized Rényi entropy, in which we can also compute the information and correlation dimensions of images. In addition, we describe and validate a computational improvement to box-counting fractal analysis. This improvement is based on integral images, which allows the speedup of any box-counting or similar fractal analysis algorithm, including estimation of scale-dependent dimensions. Finally, we applied our technique to images of invasive breast cancer tissue from 157 patients to show a relationship between the fractal analysis of these images over certain scale ranges and pathologic tumour grade (a standard prognosticator for breast cancer). Our approach is general and can be applied to any medical imaging application in which the complexity of pathological image structures may have clinical value.
Spontaneous Rupture of Pyometra
Authors: Mallah Fatemeh , Eftekhar Tahere , Naghavi-Behzad Mohammad
Published: August 2013

Spontaneous perforation is a very rare complication of pyometra. The clinical findings of perforated pyometra are similar to perforation of the gastrointestinal tract and other causes of acute abdomen. In most cases, a correct and definite diagnosis can be made only by laparotomy. We report two cases of diffuse peritonitis caused by spontaneous perforated pyometra. The first case is a 78-year-old woman with abdominal pain for which laparotomy was performed because of suspected incarcerated hernia. The second case is a 61-year-old woman with abdominal pain for which laparotomy was performed because of symptoms of peritonitis. At laparotomy of both cases, 1 liter of pus with the source of uterine was found in the abdominal cavity. The ruptured uterine is also detected. More investigations revealed no malignancy as the reason of the pyometra.
Diagnostic Procedures and Management of Dry Eye
Authors: Kaštelan Snježana , Tomić Martina , Salopek-Rabatić Jasminka , Novak Branko
Published: August 2013

Dry eye disease or dysfunctional tear syndrome is among the most frequent diagnoses in ophthalmology. It is a multifactorial disease of the ocular surface and tear film which results in ocular discomfort, visual disturbances, and tear instability with potential damage to the cornea and conjunctiva. Risk factors for dry eye syndrome include age, sex (female gender), race, contact lens wear, environment with low humidity, systemic medications, and autoimmune disorders. The aim of this paper is to present the systematic classification, epidemiology, diagnostic procedures, and advances in the management of dry eye disease. The recent improvements in comprehending the underlying etiologic factors will inevitably improve future classifications and diagnostic abilities leading to more effective therapeutic options. Treatment of this highly prevalent condition can drastically improve the quality of life of individuals and prevent damage to the ocular surface.
Stability of Nonlinear Stochastic Discrete-Time Systems
Authors: Li Yan , Zhang Weihai , Liu Xikui
Published: August 2013

This paper studies the stability for nonlinear stochastic discrete-time systems. First of all, several definitions on stability are introduced, such as stability, asymptotical stability, andpth moment exponential stability. Moreover, using the method of the Lyapunov functionals, some efficient criteria for stochastic stability are obtained. Some examples are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed theoretical results.
Addisonian Crisis due to Metastatic Adenocarcinoma in a Pygmy Goat
Authors: Nogradi Nora , Koehne Amanda L. , Mohr F. Charles , Owens Sean D. , Heller Meera C.
Published: August 2013

A 15-year-old Pygmy doe was evaluated for acute onset of lethargy, anorexia, and weakness. Adrenal insufficiency was diagnosed based on physical exam findings, blood work abnormalities (hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, azotemia, and hypoglycemia), and lack of cortisol response to the ACTH stimulation test. Abdominal ultrasound exam revealed an intact urinary tract and multiple bilateral peri-renal masses. The doe was treated with intravenous fluid therapy aimed at correcting the electrolyte abnormalities and intravenous corticosteroids. She responded favorably to medical therapy in 24 hours, with dramatic improvement in attitude and appetite. Fluid therapy was discontinued, and the doe was discharged from the hospital on steroid supplementation. She deteriorated rapidly and died at home 36 hours after discharge. Necropsy results revealed metastatic adenocarcinoma originating from the uterus that infiltrated the urinary bladder, the region of the adrenal glands, the left and right renal lymph nodes, the left kidney, the caudal vena cava, the submandibular lymph nodes, the diaphragm, the lungs, and the omentum. Addison’s syndrome in ruminants should be considered as an uncommon sequel of intra-abdominal neoplastic processes.
Inferior Right Hepatic Vein: A Useful Anatomic Variation for Isolated Resection of Segment VIII
Authors: Steinbrück Klaus , Fernandes Reinaldo , Bento Giuliano , Vasconcelos Rafael , Stoduto Gustavo , Auel Thomas , Pacheco-Moreira Lúcio F.
Published: August 2013

Anatomical resection of segment VIII (SVIII) is one of the most difficult hepatectomies to perform. Although it is the best choice of surgical treatment for tumors located at SVIII, its feasibility can be compromised when the right hepatic vein (RHV) must be resected en bloc with SVIII. Herein we describe a case of a cirrhotic patient that was submitted to segmentectomy VIII in bloc with the main trunk of the RHV, due to hepatocellular carcinoma. The resection could only be performed because a well developed inferior right hepatic vein (IRHV) was present. Anatomical variations of the liver vascularization should be used by liver surgeons to improve surgical results.
Physical Properties and Selective CO Oxidation of Coprecipitated CuO/CeO2Catalysts Depending on the CuO in the Samples
Authors: Wongkaew Akkarat , Kongsi Wichai , Limsuwan Pichet
Published: August 2013

This paper investigates the effects of CuO contents in the CuO-CeO2catalysts to the variation in physical properties of CuO/CeO2catalysts and correlates them to their catalytic activities on selective CO oxidation. The characteristic of crystallites were revealed by X-ray diffraction, and their morphological developments were examined with TEM, SEM, and BET methods. Catalytic performance of catalysts was investigated in the temperature range of 90–240°C. The results showed that the catalyst was optimized at CuO loading of 20 wt.%. This was due to the high dispersion of CuO, high specific surface area, small crystallite sizes, and low degree of CuO agglomeration. Complete CO conversion with near 100% selectivity was achieved at a temperature below 120°C. The optimal performance was seen as a balance between CuO content and dispersion observed with growth, morphology, and agglomeration of nanostructures.
Data Dependence Results for Multistep and CR Iterative Schemes in the Class of Contractive-Like Operators
Authors: Karakaya Vatan , Gürsoy Faik , Doğan Kadri , Ertürk Müzeyyen
Published: August 2013

We intend to establish some results on the data dependence of fixed points of certain contractive-like operators for the multistep and CR iterative processes in a Banach space setting. One of our results generalizes the corresponding results of Soltuz and Grosan (2008) and Chugh and Kumar (2011).
Autonomic Conditions in Tinnitus and Implications for Korean Medicine
Authors: Choi Eun Ji , Yun Younghee , Yoo Seungyeon , Kim Kyu Seok , Park Jeong-Su , Choi Inhwa
Published: August 2013

Tinnitus patients suffer from not only auditory sensations but also physical, mental, and social difficulties. Even though tinnitus is believed to be associated with the autonomic nervous system, changes in autonomic conditions in tinnitus patients are not receiving much research attention. The aims of this study were to investigate the autonomic condition of tinnitus patients and to consider Korean medicine in the treatment of tinnitus with an evidence-based approach. We performed a retrospective chart review and compared the heart rate variability (HRV) parameters of 40 tinnitus patients (19 acute and 21 chronic) and 40 healthy controls. In tinnitus patients, the power of the high frequency component and total power of the HRV significantly decreased(P<0.05), and the low frequency to high frequency ratio significantly increased(P<0.05). There was no significant difference between the acute and chronic patients. When comparing each group with the controls, there was a tendency that the longer the duration of tinnitus was, the larger the observed HRV change was. In conclusion, tinnitus patients have vagal withdrawal and sympathetic overactivity, and chronic tinnitus more strongly affects autonomic conditions than acute tinnitus. This study provides evidence for Korean medical treatments of tinnitus, such as acupuncture and Qi-training, that cause modulation of cardiac autonomic function.
Obtaining More Realistic Cross-Layer QoS Measurements: A VoIP over LTE Use Case
Authors: Rivas F. Javier , Díaz Almudena , Merino Pedro
Published: August 2013

We introduce a real-time experimentation testbed in this paper which enables more realistic analysis of quality of service (QoS) in LTE networks. This testbed is envisioned for the improvement of QoS and quality of experience (QoE) through the experimentation with real devices, services, and radio configurations. Radio configurations suggested in the literature typically arise from simulations; the testbed provides a real and controlled testing environment where such configurations can be validated. The added value of this testbed goes a long way not only in the provision of more realistic results but also in the provision of QoS and QoE cross-layer measurements through the correlation of information collected at different layers: from service and IP levels to radio and protocol parameters. Analyzing the interlayer dependencies will allow us to identify optimal settings for the radio access network and service parameters. This information can be used to suggest new cross-layer optimizations to further improve quality of experience of mobile subscribers. As a use case, we examine VoIP service over LTE, which is currently an open issue.
Does the RIFLE Classification Improve Prognostic Value of the APACHE II Score in Critically Ill Patients?
Authors: Wahrhaftig Kátia M. , Correia Luis C. L. , Matias Denise , De Souza Carlos A. M.
Published: August 2013

Introduction.The RIFLE classification defines three severity criteria for acute kidney injury (AKI): risk, injury, and failure. It was associated with mortality according to the gradation of AKI severity. However, it is not known if the APACHE II score, associated with the RIFLE classification, results in greater discriminatory power in relation to mortality in critical patients.Objective.To analyze whether the RIFLE classification adds value to the performance of APACHE II in predicting mortality in critically ill patients.Methods.An observational prospective cohort of 200 patients admitted to the ICU from July 2010 to July 2011.Results.The age of the sample was 66 (±16.7) years, 53.3% female. ICU mortality was 23.5%. The severity of AKI presented higher risk of death: class risk (RR = 1.89 CI:0.97–3.38, ), grade injury (RR = 3.7 CI:1.71–8.08, ), and class failure (RR = 4.79 CI:2.10–10.6, ). The APACHE II had C-statistics of 0.75, 95% (CI:0.68–0.80, ) and 0.80 (95% CI:0.74 to 0.86, ) after being incorporated into the RIFLE classification in relation to prediction of death. In the comparison between AUROCs, .Conclusion.The severity of AKI, defined by the RIFLE classification, was a risk marker for mortality in critically ill patients, and improved the performance of APACHE II in predicting the mortality in this population.
Improved Visual Hook Capturing and Tracking for Precision Hoisting of Tower Crane
Authors: Li Yanming , Wang Shuangyuan , Li Bingchu
Published: August 2013

To maintain safe operation of the tower crane, it is important to monitor the activities of the hook system. Visual monitoring and image recognition are the optimum methods for crane hook tracking and precision hoisting. High real-time performance and low computation requirements are required for tower crane hook capturing and tracking system which is implemented on the embedded Advanced RISC Machines (ARM) processor or Microcontrol Unit (MCU). Using the lift rope of a tower crane as the target object, a new high-performance hook tracking method suitble for ARM processor or MCU applications is presented. The features of the lifting process are analyzed, and an improved progressive probabilistic Hough transform (IPPHT) algorithm is proposed which canreduce capturing time by up to 80%. Combining color histogram with a binary search algorithm, an adaptive zooming method for precise hoisting is presented. Using this method the optimum zoom scale can be achieved within a few iterations.
Developing Dynamic Digital Image Techniques with Continuous Parameters to Detect Structural Damage
Authors: Shih Ming-Hsiang , Sung Wen-Pei
Published: August 2013

Several earthquakes with strong magnitude occurred globally at various locations, especially the unforgettable tsunami disaster caused by the earthquake in Indonesia and Japan. If the characteristics of structures can be well understood to implement new technology, the damages caused by most natural disasters can be significantly alleviated. In this research, dynamic digital image correlation method for using continuous parameter is applied for developing a low‐cost digital image correlation coefficient method with advanced digital cameras and high‐speed computers. The experimental study using cantilever test object with defect control confirms that the vibration mode calculated using this proposed method can highly express the defect locations. This proposed method combined with the sensitivity of Inter‐Story Drift Mode Shape, IDMS, can also reveal the damage degree of damage structure. These test and analysis results indicate that this proposed method is high enough for applying to achieve the object of real‐time online monitoring of structure.
A Rare Case of Immune Reconstitution Inflammatory Syndrome Development in an Immunocompromised Patient with Progressive Multifocal Leukoencephalopathy and Multicentric Castleman’s Disease
Authors: Kurukumbi Mohankumar , Steiner Sheldon , Dunlap Shariff , Chapman Sherita , Solieman Noha , Jayam-Trouth Annapurni
Published: August 2013

Immune reconstitution inflammatory syndrome (IRIS) development in HIV with preexistent progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) has been extensively studied. PML-IRIS typically manifests clinically as new or worsening neurologic symptoms in conjunction with enlarging CNS lesions and occurs in approximately 10–20 percent of HIV-infected patients with PML who begin HAART. Likewise, Multicentric Castleman’s Disease (MCD), a rare malignant lymphoproliferative disorder, has a strong and well-known association with HIV. Our case provides a rare instance of PML-IRIS in combination with MCD in an HIV-positive individual. The combination of all three diseases has never been reported in the literature. Both MCD and PML were present during initial determination of HIV infection in our patient and their disease courses were altered during the subsequent development of IRIS.
The Anterior Ratio: The Missing Link between Orthodontics and Aesthetic Dentistry
Authors: Aulakh Raman
Published: August 2013

There is an increase in the number of dentists using orthodontic treatment for anterior tooth alignment. This is either combined with additive bonding or interproximal reduction; knowing “when to” and “how much” requires an understanding of the anterior ratio. This case report explains how to use the anterior ratio to help provide optimal aesthetics and function for the ortho-restorative patient. The anterior ratio is an important diagnostic tool required for both disciplines of orthodontics and restorative dentistry which is often overlooked. The case report demonstrates the use of the Invisalign orthodontic appliance and the corresponding ClinCheck software to help achieve the proposed treatment goals.
Cytomegalovirus in the Neonate: Immune Correlates of Infection and Protection
Authors: Schleiss Mark R.
Published: August 2013

Fetal and neonatal infections caused by human cytomegalovirus (CMV) are important causes of morbidity and occasional mortality. Development of a vaccine against congenital CMV infection is a major public health priority. Vaccine design is currently focused on strategies that aim to elicit neutralizing antibody and T-cell responses, toward the goal of preventing primary or recurrent infection in women of child-bearing age. However, there has been relatively little attention given to understanding the mechanisms of immune protection against acquisition of CMV infection in the fetus and newborn and how this information might be exploited for vaccine design. There has similarly been an insufficient study of what deficits in the immune response to CMV, both for mother and fetus, may increase susceptibility to congenital infection and disease. Protection of the fetus against vertical transmission can likely be achieved by protection of the placenta, which has its own unique immunological milieu, further complicating the analysis of the correlates of protective immunity. In this review, the current state of knowledge about immune effectors of protection against CMV in the maternal, placental, and fetal compartments is reviewed. A better understanding of immune responses that prevent and/or predispose to infection will help in the development of novel vaccine strategies.
An Uncommon Twist: Isolated Fallopian Tube Torsion in an Adolescent
Authors: Kisku Sundeep , Thomas Reju Joseph
Published: August 2013

We report a 13-year-old girl with bilateral paratubal cysts and left isolated fallopian tube torsion (IFTT). Paratubal cysts are uncommon in children, and IFTT is a rare complication. Awareness of this entity and prompt surgical intervention could potentially salvage the fallopian tube preserving fertility.
Long-Term Fluoride Exchanges at Restoration Surfaces and Effects on Surface Mechanical Properties
Authors: Naoum Steven , Martin Elizabeth , Ellakwa Ayman
Published: August 2013

Aim. The aim of the study was to determine whether three fluoride containing resin composites could maintain fluoride release, fluoride recharge, and mechanical stability over long-term (18-month) aging.Materials and Methods. Fluoride containing composites Beautifil II, Gradia Direct X, Tetric EvoCeram, and glass ionomer Fuji IX Extra were analyzed. Specimens of each material were fabricated for two test groups: Group 1: bimonthly fluoride release/recharge analysis (); Group 2: hardness and elastic modulus analysis (). Nanoindentation was employed at 24 hours and at 1, 3, 6, 12, and 18 months. After 18 months, each specimen was immersed (recharged) in 5000 ppm NaF gel, and fluoride rerelease, hardness, and elastic modulus were measured.Results.Beautifil II and Gradia Direct X maintained fluoride release and recharge capability throughout 18-month aging (Beautifil II > Gradia Direct X > Tetric EvoCeram). The fluoride rerelease from Beautifil II following a 10-minute NaF recharge (at 18 months) was comparable to the long-term fluoride release from Fuji IX Extra. Elastic modulus and hardness did not change significantly () with fluoride release, recharge, and water aging over 18 months for all three analyzed composites.Conclusions.The long-term fluoride release, fluoride recharge, and mechanical property stability of Beautifil II and Gradia Direct X render these composites suitable for load bearing restorations in high caries risk patients.Clinical Relevance.The ability for Beautifil II and Gradia Direct X to maintain fluoride release and fluoride recharge capability, despite long-term aging, raises the potential for unrestored tooth surfaces in contact with Beautifil II or Gradia Direct X restorations to demonstrate a reduced rate of caries incidence compared to unrestored surfaces adjacent to conventional nonfluoride containing composites.
Synthesis and Characterization of Carbazole-Benzothiadiazole-Based Conjugated Polymers for Organic Photovoltaic Cells with Triazole in the Main Chain
Authors: Lim Eunhee
Published: August 2013

We have synthesized a series of carbazole-benzothiadiazole-triazole based copolymers, poly[(N-9′-heptadecanyl-2,7-carbazole)-co-(5,5-(4′,7′-di-2-thienyl-2′,1′,3′-benzothiadiazole))-co-((4-(4-butylphenyl)-3,5-diphenyl-4H-1,2,4]triazole))] (PCz3TBTz) by Suzuki coupling polymerization. The optical and electrochemical properties of the copolymers could be tuned by changing the comonomer unit of triazole from 0% to 80%. Organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells were fabricated by blending the synthesized polymers as a donor and PCBM as an acceptor. The material solubility and film morphology were improved by introducing the triazole unit in the main chain. Improved OPV device performance of 1.74% was achieved in the presence of an optimal amount of triazole moieties.
Synthesis and Antioxidant Activity of 2-Amino-5-methylthiazol Derivatives Containing 1,3,4-Oxadiazole-2-thiol Moiety
Authors: Mohana Kikkeri N. , Kumar Chikkur B. Pradeep
Published: August 2013

A series of new 5-(2-amino-5-methylthiazol-4-yl)-1,3,4-oxadiazole-2-thiol derivatives 6(a–j) were designed and synthesized with various substituted aldehydes. The chemical structures were confirmed by elemental analyses, FT-IR, 1H NMR, and mass spectral studies. The antioxidant activity of the synthesized compounds was evaluated by 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), hydroxyl, nitric oxide, and superoxide radical scavenging assay methods. Compounds 6a, 6e, and 6c showed significant radical scavenging potential due to the presence of electron donating substituent on substituted aldehydes.
Maternal Deaths in NSW (2000–2006) from Nonmedical Causes (Suicide and Trauma) in the First Year following Birth
Authors: Thornton Charlene , Schmied Virginia , Dennis Cindy-Lee , Barnett Bryanne , Dahlen Hannah Grace
Published: August 2013

Introduction. Trauma, including suicide, accidental injury, motor traffic accidents, and homicides, accounts for 73% of all maternal deaths (early and late) in NSW annually. Late maternal deaths are underreported and are not as well documented or acknowledged as early deaths.Methods. Linked population datasets from births, hospital admissions, and death registrations were analysed for the period from 1 July 2000 to 31 December 2007.Results. There were 552 901 births and a total of 129 maternal deaths. Of these deaths, 37 were early deaths (early MMR of 6.7/100 000) and 92 occurred late (late MMR of 16.6/100 000). Sixty-seven percent of deceased women had a mental health diagnosis and/or a mental health issue related to substance abuse noted. A notable peak in deaths appeared to occur from 9 to 12 months following birth with the odds ratio of a woman dying of nonmedical causes within 9–12 months of birth being 3.8 (95% CI 1.55–9.01) when compared to dying within the first 3 months following birth.Conclusion. Perinatal services are often constructed to provide short-term support. Long-term identification and support of women at particular risk of maternal death due to suicide and trauma in the first year following birth may help lower the incidence of late maternal deaths.
Preparation of Niobium Metal Powder by Two-Stage Magnesium Vapor Reduction of Niobium Pentoxide
Authors: Kumar T. Satish , Kumar S. Rajesh , Rao M. Lakshmipathi , Prakash T. L.
Published: August 2013

Magnesium vapor reduction of niobium pentoxide was studied using a laboratory system. Niobium powder was prepared by the magnesium vapor reduction at 1123 K for 5 hours and it contained about 8 mass % oxygen. However, the oxygen concentration could be decreased to 0.65% when it was prepared by double-step reduction by magnesium vapor and a chemical treatment. Controlled and diluted supply of magnesium vapor to the reaction front has averted excess heat generation at the reaction front and thereby fine particles were produced. Effects of various factors on the vapor reduction process were studied and discussed.
Efficient and Rapid Solvent‐Free Acetylation of Alcohols, Phenols, and Thiols Using Catalytic Amounts of Sodium Acetate Trihydrate
Authors: Mojtahedi Mohammad M. , Samadian Shamim
Published: August 2013

Under solvent‐free conditions, different alcohols and phenols were efficiently acetylated at room temperature within short time periods by using acetic anhydride in the presence of catalytic quantities of sodium acetate trihydrate, which is a very inexpensive and mild reagent. Thiols were also shown to behave equally well under the same conditions. Chemoselective protection of less hindered alcohols in the presence of bulkier homologues and phenols in the presence of alcohols was achieved using competitive experiments.
Design and Implementation of a State-Driven Operating System for Highly Reconfigurable Sensor Networks
Authors: Kim Tae-Hyung
Published: August 2013

Due to the low-cost and low-power requirement in an individual sensor node, the available computing resources turn out to be very limited like small memory footprint and irreplaceable battery power. Sensed data fusion might be needed before being transmitted as a tradeoff between procession and transmission in consideration of saving power consumption. Even worse, the application program needs to be complicated enough to be self-organizing and dynamically reconfigurable because changes in an operating environment continue even after deployment. State-driven operating system platform offers numerous benefits in this challenging situation. It provides a powerful way to accommodate complex reactive systems like diverse wireless sensor network applications. The memory usage can be bounded within a state transition table. The complicated issues like concurrency control and asynchronous event handling capabilities can be easily achieved in a well-defined behavior of state transition diagram. In this paper, we present an efficient and effective design of the state-driven operating system for wireless sensor nodes. We describe that the new platform can operate in an extremely resource constrained situation while providing the desired concurrency, reactivity, and reconfigurability. We also compare the executing results after comparing some benchmark test results with those on TinyOS.
Delayed Soft Tissue Reconstruction with a Horizontal Rectus Abdominis Musculocutaneous Flap following Hip Exarticulation
Authors: Rødgaard Jes Christian , Tei Troels Michael
Published: August 2013

Coverage of large soft tissue defects at the hip region constitutes a challenge for plastic surgeons. We report the case of a 43-year-old female with necrotizing fasciitis of the right thigh, necessitating hip exarticulation and substantial debridement of necrotic tissue. An ipsilateral horizontal rectus abdominis myocutaneous (HRAM) flap was used to cover the defect. The reconstruction was carried out after the attempt of local tissue rearrangement. In light of the successful outcome, we propose that this flap be considered in the future planning of soft tissue reconstruction at the hip region.
Reduced-Orderl2−l∞Filter Design for a Class of Discrete-Time Nonlinear Systems with Multiple Sensor Faults
Authors: Li Wenbai , Li Huxiong
Published: August 2013

The reduced-order filtering problem for a class of discrete-time smooth nonlinear systems subject to multiple sensor faults is studied. It is well known that a smooth complex nonlinear system can be approximated by a Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy linear system with finite number of subsystems. In this work, firstly, the discrete-time smooth nonlinear system is transferred into a Takagi-Sugeno fuzzy linear system with finite number of subsystems. Secondly, a filter with the reduced order of the original system is proposed to be designed. Different from the traditional assumption in which the measurement of the output is ideal, the measurement of the output is subject to sensor faults which are described via Bernoulli processes. By using the augmentation technique, a stochastic Takagi-Sugeno filtering error system is obtained. For the stochastic filtering error system, the exponential stability and the energy-to-peak performance are investigated. Sufficient conditions which can guarantee the exponential stability and thel2−l∞performance are obtained. Then, with the proposed conditions, the design procedure of the filter for the nonlinear system is proposed. Finally, a numerical example is used to show the effectiveness of the proposed design methodology.
A New Proposed Return Guide Vane for Compact Multistage Centrifugal Pumps
Authors: Zhang Qihua , Shi Weidong , Xu Yan , Gao Xiongfa , Wang Chuan , Lu Weigang , Ma Dongqi
Published: August 2013

For widely used multistage centrifugal pumps, their former structures are so bulky that nowadays growing interest has been shifted to the development of more compact structures. Following this trend, a compact pump structure is provided and analysed. To maintain the pump’s pressure recovery, as well as to meet the water flow from the impeller, a circumferential twisted return guide vane (RGV) is proposed. To validate this design method, the instantaneous CFD simulations are performed to investigate the rotor-stator interventions. Within the impeller, the pressure fluctuation is cyclic symmetry, where the impeller frequency dominates. At the zone where flow leaves impeller for RGV, the pressure fluctuation is nonperiodic, the impeller frequency is major, and the rotation frequency is secondary. Within RGV, the periodic symmetric fluctuation is recovered, where the rotation frequency is governing. The fluctuation decreases from seven cycles within impeller to two cycles within RGV, indicating that the flow from impeller is well handled by RGV. To examine the pump’s performance, a prototype multistage pump is designed. The testing shows that the pump efficiency is 57.5%, and the stage head is 9 m, which is comparable to former multistage centrifugal pumps. And this design is more advantageous in developing compact multistage centrifugal pumps.
Fractional Solutions of Bessel Equation with N‐Method
Authors: Bas Erdal , Yilmazer Resat , Panakhov Etibar
Published: August 2013

This paper deals with the design fractional solution of Bessel equation. We obtain explicit solutions of the equation with the help of fractional calculus techniques. Using the N‐fractional calculus operator Nν method, we derive the fractional solutions of the equation.
An Enhanced Fractional Order Model of Ionic Polymer-Metal Composites Actuator
Authors: Caponetto R. , Graziani S. , Sapuppo F. , Tomasello V.
Published: August 2013

Ionic polymer-metal composites (IPMCs) are electroactive polymers which transform the mechanical forces into electric signals and vice versa. The paper proposes an enhanced fractional order transfer function (FOTF) model for IPMC membrane working as actuator. In particular the IPMC model has been characterized through experimentation, and a more detailed structure of its FOTF has been determined via optimization routines. The minimization error was attained comparing the simple genetic algorithms with the simplex method and considering the error between the experimental and model derived frequency responses as cost functions.
Polymer Composites Based on Plasticized PVC and Vulcanized Nitrile Rubber Waste Powder for Irrigation Pipes
Authors: Stelescu Maria Daniela
Published: August 2013

The paper presents the technique of production and characterization of polymer composites based on plasticized PVC and rubber powder from vulcanized nitrile rubber waste. The new polymer composites have lower hardness, higher elongation at break, a better tensile strength, and better ozone resistance, and the blend suitable for irrigations pipes for agricultural use was selected. The selected polymer composites have a good behavior under accelerated aging, repeated flexion at room temperature and at low temperature (−20°C), a very good behavior for immersion in water, concentrated acid and basis, animal fat, soya, and sun flower oil, proving their suitability for gaskets, hoses, protection equipment, rubber footwear, and so forth. The resulted thermoplastic polymer composites can be processed by injection, extrusion, and compression molding.
Autologous Bone-Marrow-Derived-Mononuclear-Cells-Enriched Fat Transplantation in Breast Augmentation: Evaluation of Clinical Outcomes and Aesthetic Results in a 30-Year-Old Female
Authors: Bulgin Dmitry , Vrabic Erik , Hodzic Enes
Published: August 2013

Autologous fat transfer (lipofilling) is becoming an invaluable tool for breast augmentation as well as for breast reconstruction. Autologous lipofilling has several advantages, including biocompatibility, versatility, natural appearance, and low donor site morbidity. The main limitation is unpredictable fat graft resorption, which ranges from 25% to 80%, probably as a result of ischaemia and lack of neoangiogenesis. To obviate these disadvantages, several studies have searched for new ways of increasing the viability of the transplanted fat tissue. One promising approach is to enrich the fat graft with autologous bone-marrow-derived mononuclear cells (BMMNCs) before transplantation. BMMNCs produce many angiogenic and antiapoptotic growth factors, and their secretion is significantly enhanced by hypoxia. All of these mechanisms of actions could be beneficial for the stimulation of angiogenesis in ischemic tissues by BMMNCs administration. In our aesthetic surgery practice, we use fat transplantation enriched with BMMNCs, which caused a significant improvement in survival of fat grafts, compared with that of traditional lipofilling. Our experience with freshly isolated autologous fat enriched with BMMNCs for breast augmentation procedures is presented. The concept of this surgical and tissue handling technique is based on ability of BMMNCs to stimulate blood vessel growth.
ERG Protein Expression Is of Limited Prognostic Value in Men with Localized Prostate Cancer
Authors: Teng Liang Hong , Wang Cheng , Dolph Michael , Donnelly Bryan , Bismar Tarek A.
Published: August 2013

Background. The prognostic significance of ERG expression in prostate cancer (PCA) has generated mixed results. We sought to investigate the prognostic significance of ERG expression in a localized cohort of men with PCA. Material and Methods. We investigated ERG protein expression in a cohort of 198 men with localized PCA. ERG expression was correlated with patients' clinical outcome and several pathological parameters, including Gleason score (GS), pathological stage, surgical margin, and extra-capsular extension. Results. ERG expression was detected in 86/198 (43.4%) patients exclusively in neoplastic epithelium. Overall, ERG mean expression intensity was 1.01±1.27 versus 0.37±0.83 in acinar PCA compared to foamy type PCA (P<0.001). In HGPIN, ERG intensity levels were comparable to those in foamy type PCA (0.13±0.56) but significantly lower than those in acinar PCA (P<0.001). ERG expression was significantly associated with extra-prostatic extension and higher pathological stage and showed a trend toward seminal vesicle invasion. Herein, ERG expression was documented in 50/131 (38.1%) patients with pT2 versus 30/55 (54.5%) patients with pT3 (P=0.04). ERG association with higher pathological stage was more pronounced in patients with GS>7. Grouping patients into those with GS≤7 versus >7, there was no significant association between ERG expression and GS. Similarly, no association was present in relation to either surgical margins or postsurgical serum PSA levels. Conclusion. We report significant association between ERG protein levels and extra-prostatic extension and higher pathological stage. ERG expression is not associated with adverse clinical outcome and is of limited prognostic value in localized PCA.
Matrix-Based Conceptual Solution Generation Approach of Multifunction Product
Authors: Kang Yuyun , Tang Dunbing
Published: August 2013

In order to integrate two single-function products to a multifunction product, a matrix-based conceptual solution generation approach is proposed in this paper. In the approach, the overall function of a single-function product is decomposed into a number of subfunctions. The sub-functions are described by the functional basis and are used to construct the function model of the single-function product. By analyzing the function models of two single-function products, a functional similarity matrix is constructed based on the quantified similarity indexes of two sub-functions. For indicating the relationship between the sub-functions and the components, a function-component matrix of each single-function product is constructed, and then a component-component matrix of two single-function products can be acquired by multiplying the function-component matrix and the functional similarity matrix. There are three kinds of components' relationships in the component-component matrix, namely, no-correlation, simple-correlation, and complex-correlation. The components of two single-function products can be, respectively, removed, modified, and reserved according to the different correlation relationships, and a design solution of a new multi-function product can be obtained by combining the reserved and modified components. As a case study, a conceptual solution of a new shaver is acquired under the help of the provided approach.
Severe Macular Edema in Patients with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis-Related Uveitis
Authors: Paroli Maria Pia , Fabiani Claudia , Spinucci Giovanni , Abicca Irene , Sapia Alfredo , Spadea Leopoldo
Published: August 2013

Purpose. To report the onset of severe macular edema in adolescent female patients affected by juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).Methods. Four female patients affected by JIA-related chronic anterior uveitis (CAU), complicated by severe macular edema, were retrospectively analyzed. Macular area was evaluated by fluorescein angiography and optical coherence tomography (OCT).Results. CAU was bilateral in three patients. Mean age of uveitis and arthritis onset was, respectively,4.5±1.7years and6.0±3.9years. All patients underwent cataract extraction surgery. Despite ocular inflammation being controlled by topical/systemic therapy, during adolescence (mean age of appearance/diagnosis:12.7±3.9years) patients developed severe unilateral macular edema. OCT revealed massive macular thickening (range from 550 μm to 1214 μm).Conclusions. Macular edema appeared in female adolescent patients in eyes with long-dating CAU submitted to cataract surgery. In such patients, in presence of age-related microvascular changes due to the enhancer effect of sex hormones, cataract extraction should be a factor triggering the retinal complication.
Two-Agent Single-Machine Scheduling with Resource-Dependent Starting Times
Authors: Liu Peng , Tian Xiaoyu
Published: August 2013

We consider several two-agent scheduling problems with resource consumption on a single machine, where each of the agents wants to minimize a measure dependent on its own jobs. The starting time of each job of the first agent is related to the amount of resource consumed. The objective is to minimize the total amount of resource consumption of the first agent with the restriction that the makespan or the total completion time of the second agent cannot exceed a given boundU. The optimal properties and the optimal polynomial time algorithms are proposed to solve the scheduling problems.
Nano‐ZnO Catalyzed Green and Efficient One‐Pot Four‐Component Synthesis of Pyranopyrazoles
Authors: Tekale Sunil U. , Kauthale Sushma S. , Jadhav Kavita M. , Pawar Rajendra P.
Published: August 2013

An efficient zinc oxide nanoparticle catalyzed one‐pot, four‐component synthesis of 6‐amino‐3‐methyl‐5‐cyano‐4‐aryl‐1,4‐dihydropyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazoles from aromatic aldehyde, malononitrile, ethyl acetoacetate, and hydrazine hydrate in aqueous medium is described. Since water was employed as the reaction medium, it serves as a green route for the synthesis of pyrano[2,3‐c]pyrazoles. The advantages associated with the present protocol include nonchromatographic purification technique, use of recyclable heterogeneous nano‐ZnO catalyst in aqueous medium, and short reaction time. It combines successfully the synergistic effect of green chemistry with nanocatalysis.
Autoimmune Hepatitis: Diagnostic Dilemma in the Setting of Suspected Iron Overload
Authors: An In Chul , Tiwari Ashish K. , Ameda Srujan , Laird-Fick Heather S.
Published: August 2013

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is an inflammatory condition of the liver that has a multitude of clinical presentations from chronic hepatitis to acute fulminant hepatitis. AIH diagnosis is typically suspected after ruling out other causes of hepatitis (such as vial hepatitis, hemochromatosis, Wilson’s disease, and primary biliary cirrhosis) through serological tests and by findings of high titers of certain autoantibodies (ANA and anti-SMA for type 1 AIH and anti-LKM-1 for type 2 AIH). AIH like most inflammatory conditions is associated with increased ferritin levels (acute-phase reactant) but typically near-normal transferrin saturation. The presence of excessive ferritin level in absence of high-transferrin saturation helps differentiate secondary iron overload from hemochromatosis where transferrin saturation is typically high. We herein describe a case of AIH that presented with high ferritin levels and transferrin saturation suggesting a diagnosis of hemochromatosis and needed arduous work-up to arrive at accurate diagnosis of AIH.