bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electroacupuncture Ameliorates Learning and Memory via Activation of the CREB Signaling Pathway in the Hippocampus to Attenuate Apoptosis after Cerebral Hypoperfusion
Authors: Han Xiaohua , Zhao Xiuxiu , Lu Min , Liu Fang , Guo Feng , Zhang Jinghui , Huang Xiaolin
Published: October 2013

Studies have shown that electroacupuncture (EA) ameliorates learning and memory after ischemic injury. However, there have been few studies elucidating the mechanisms of EA on learning and memory in cerebral hypoperfusion. In this study, we explored the cAMP response element-binding protein (CREB) signaling pathway-mediated antiapoptotic action involved in EA-induced improvement of learning and memory. EA at GV20 and GV14 acupoints was applied in cerebral hypoperfusion rats. A Morris water maze task was performed, and the immunoreactivities of pCREB, Bcl-2, and Bax in the hippocampal CA1 area were evaluated by the Western blotting technique. Our findings indicated that (1) EA ameliorated spatial learning and memory impairment in cerebral hypoperfusion rats; (2) EA increased the immunoreactivities of pCREB and Bcl-2 and decreased the immunoreactivity of Bax; (3) intracerebroventricular administration of H89 (the inhibitor of protein kinase A) blocked EA-induced, pCREB-mediated antiapoptotic action and improved learning and memory. These results suggest that EA can ameliorate learning and memory via activation of the CREB signaling pathway in the hippocampus to attenuate apoptosis after cerebral hypoperfusion.
Computational Analysis of Droplet Mass and Size Effect on Mist/Air Impingement Cooling Performance
Authors: Yu Zhenglei , Xu Tao , Li Junlou , Xu Tianshuang , Yoshino Tatsuo
Published: October 2013

Impingement cooling has been widely employed to cool gas turbine hot components such as combustor liners, combustor transition pieces, turbine vanes, and blades. A promising technology is proposed to enhance impingement cooling with water droplets injection. However, previous studies were conducted on blade shower head film cooling, and less attention was given to the transition piece cooling. As a continuous effort to develop a realistic mist impingement cooling scheme, this paper focuses on simulating mist impingement cooling under typical gas turbine operating conditions of high temperature and pressure in a double chamber model. Furthermore, the paper presents the effect of cooling effectiveness by changing the mass and size of the droplets. Based on the heat-mass transfer analogy, the results of these experiments prove that the mass of 3E – 3 kg/s droplets with diameters of 5–35 μm could enhance 90% cooling effectiveness and reduce 122 K of wall temperature. The results of this paper can provide guidance for corresponding experiments and serve as the qualification reference for future more complicated studies with convex surface cooling.
Hopf Bifurcation of an Improved SLBS Model under the Influence of Latent Period
Authors: Zhang Chunming , Liu Wanping , Xiao Jing , Zhao Yun
Published: October 2013

A model applicable to describe the propagation of computer virus is developed and studied, along with the latent time incorporated. We regard time delay as a bifurcating parameter to study the dynamical behaviors including local asymptotical stability and local Hopf bifurcation. By analyzing the associated characteristic equation, Hopf bifurcation occurs when the time delay passes through a sequence of critical values. A formula for determining the direction of the Hopf bifurcation and the stability of bifurcating periodic solutions is given by using the normal form method and center manifold theorem. Finally, illustrative examples are given to support the theoretical results.
An Optimal Method for Developing Global Supply Chain Management System
Authors: Lu Hao-Chun , Huang Yao-Huei
Published: October 2013

Owing to the transparency in supply chains, enhancing competitiveness of industries becomes a vital factor. Therefore, many developing countries look for a possible method to save costs. In this point of view, this study deals with the complicated liberalization policies in the global supply chain management system and proposes a mathematical model via the flow-control constraints, which are utilized to cope with the bonded warehouses for obtaining maximal profits. Numerical experiments illustrate that the proposed model can be effectively solved to obtain the optimal profits in the global supply chain environment.
Gaussian Estimation of One-Factor Mean Reversion Processes
Authors: Marín Sánchez Freddy H. , Palacio J. Sebastian
Published: October 2013

We propose a new alternative method to estimate the parameters in one-factor mean reversion processes based on the maximum likelihood technique. This approach makes use of Euler-Maruyama scheme to approximate the continuous-time model and build a new process discretized. The closed formulas for the estimators are obtained. Using simulated data series, we compare the results obtained with the results published by other authors.
Unique Range Set for Meromorphic Functions with Deficient Values
Authors: Banerjee Abhijit , Majumder Sujoy
Published: October 2013

We employ the idea of weighted sharing of sets to find a unique range set for meromorphic functions with deficient values. Our result improves, generalises, and extends the result of Lahiri. Examples are exhibited that a condition in one of our results is the best possible one.
Design and Implementation of Double-Transmitter-Coil Antenna Used for the Tag Test System
Authors: You Bin , Yue Haoling , Wen Xuan , Qu Liangyu
Published: October 2013

At present, more and more electronic tags are used in Antitheft system; it is important to examine the performance of electronic tags. The traditional single-transmitter-coil antenna (STC antenna) of the electronic tags tester has some serious drawbacks. So a novel double-transmitter-coil antenna (DTC antenna) is presented in this paper. Compared to the traditional STC antenna, this new antenna has a more excellent performance in the tag test systems, especially when it is used for testing the quality factor of tags.
Different Contribution of Splanchnic Organs to Hyperlactatemia in Fecal Peritonitis and Cardiac Tamponade
Authors: Gorrasi José , Eleftheriadis Anestis , Takala Jukka , Brandt Sebastian , Djafarzadeh Siamak , Bruegger Lukas E. , Bracht Hendrik , Jakob Stephan M.
Published: October 2013

Background. Changes in hepatosplanchnic lactate exchange are likely to contribute to hyperlactatemia in sepsis. We hypothesized that septic and cardiogenic shock have different effects on hepatosplanchnic lactate exchange and its contribution to hyperlactatemia.Materials and Methods. 24 anesthetized pigs were randomized to fecal peritonitis (P), cardiac tamponade (CT), and to controls ( per group). Oxygen transport and lactate exchange were calculated during 24 hours.Results. While hepatic lactate influx increased in P and in CT, hepatic lactate uptake remained unchanged in P and decreased in CT. Hepatic lactate efflux contributed 20% (P) and 33% (CT), respectively, to whole body venous efflux. Despite maintained hepatic arterial blood flow, hepatic oxygen extraction did not increase in CT.Conclusions. Whole body venous lactate efflux is of similar magnitude in hyperdynamic sepsis and in cardiogenic shock. Although jejunal mucosal pCO2gradients are increased, enhanced lactate production from other tissues is more relevant to the increased arterial lactate. Nevertheless, the liver fails to increase hepatic lactate extraction in response to rising hepatic lactate influx, despite maintained hepatic oxygen consumption. In cardiac tamponade, regional, extrasplanchnic lactate production is accompanied by hepatic failure to increase oxygen extraction and net hepatic lactate output, despite maintained hepatic arterial perfusion.
Association Study of Estrogen Receptor Alpha Gene Polymorphisms with Spontaneous Abortion: Is This a Possible Reason for Unexplained Spontaneous Abortion?
Authors: Anousha Negin , Hossein-Nezhad Arash , Biramijamal Firouzeh , Rahmani Ali , Maghbooli Zhila , Aghababaei Elahe , Nemati Shahram
Published: October 2013

Estrogen plays a crucial role in fetal and placental development through estrogen receptors. Association of estrogen receptor alpha gene (ESR1) polymorphisms with spontaneous abortion has been shown in some studies. Our main goal was to study the potential association of spontaneous abortion with theESR1gene variations (PvuIIandXbaI) in fetal tissue. Totally, 161 samples were recruited including 80 samples of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded fetal tissue from spontaneous abortion and 81 samples of normal term placental tissue. The restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) method was performed for genotyping the rs2234693 (A/GXbaI) and rs9340799 (T/CPvuII) single nucleotide polymorphisms located in intron 1 ofESR1. The results have been confirmed by DNA sequencing analysis. The different genotypes distribution was detected in two study groups. Haplotype analysis indicated thatppxxis protective genotype against spontaneous abortion (P= 0.01). In conclusion, the potential role ofESR1genetic variation in spontaneous abortion might be valuable in high-risk subjects, and that needs to be confirmed with future studies.
Topological Properties of the Complex Vector Lattice of Bounded Measurable Functions
Authors: Nowak Marian
Published: October 2013

Let Σ be aσ-algebra of subsets of a nonempty set Ω. Let be the complex vector lattice of bounded Σ-measurable complex-valued functions on Ω and let be the Banach space of all bounded countably additive complex-valued measures on Ω. We study locally solid topologies on . In particular, it is shown that the Mackey topology is the finest locally convex-solidσ-Lebesgue topology on .
Intrusion Detection Systems Based on Artificial Intelligence Techniques in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Alrajeh Nabil Ali , Lloret J.
Published: October 2013

Intrusion detection system (IDS) is regarded as the second line of defense against network anomalies and threats. IDS plays an important role in network security. There are many techniques which are used to design IDSs for specific scenario and applications. Artificial intelligence techniques are widely used for threats detection. This paper presents a critical study on genetic algorithm, artificial immune, and artificial neural network (ANN) based IDSs techniques used in wireless sensor network (WSN).
SNP rs2073618 of the Osteoprotegerin Gene Is Associated with Diabetic Retinopathy in Slovenian Patients with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Mankoč Ramuš Sara , Kumše Tina , Globočnik Petrovič Mojca , Petrovič Daniel , Cilenšek Ines
Published: October 2013

Recent studies indicate that osteoprotegerin (OPG) acts as an important regulatory molecule in the vasculature. Also, a strong association was observed between circulation OPG and microvascular complication. By considering the possible role of OPG in diabetic retinopathy (DR) we examined two of the most studied polymorphisms of the OPG genes rs2073618 (located in exon I) and rs3134069 (located in the promoter region) and their relation to DR in Slovenian patients with type 2 diabetes. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the carriers of the CC genotype had a 2.2 higher risk for DR than those with either the CG genotype or the GG genotype (codominant model for rs2073618). Furthermore, the combined effect of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs2073618 and rs3134069 on the DR was stronger than that of each SNP alone. The odds ratio (OR) for individuals with CC genotype (rs2073618) and AA genotype (rs3134069) compared with carriers of CG/GG (rs2073618) + AA (rs3134069) was 2.54 (95% CI = 1.26–5.13, ). To conclude, these results indicate that SNPs in the OPG gene may be implicated in the pathogenesis of DR.
Repeatability of Peripheral Artery Tonometry in Female Subjects
Authors: Degnan Andrew J. , Shah Nandini , Carty David M. , Petrie John R. , Delles Christian , Schneider Markus P.
Published: October 2013

Background.Peripheral arterial tonometry (PAT) is a novel, non-invasive and operator-independent method for simultaneous assessment of endothelial function and arterial stiffness. We examined the repeatability of PAT in females and the influence of the estrous cycle.Methods.In 14 healthy female and five healthy male control subjects, PAT was performed on three separate occasions with 10 days between visits. Reactive hyperemia index (RHI), a measure of endothelial function, and peripheral augmentation index (AIx), a measure of arterial stiffness, were determined with the EndoPAT-2000 system. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was calculated as a measure of repeatability.Results.In both female and male groups, RHI and AIx did not differ between the three measurements (all n.s. by 1-way ANOVA). In females, reanalyzing the data after taking phase of estrous cycle into account had no effect on the results. Repeatability for RHI and AIx in females (ICC for RHI = 0.43, ICC for AIx = 0.78) was similar to that in male subjects (ICC for RHI = 0.42, ICC for AIx = 0.63).Conclusions.PAT measurements were not affected by the estrous cycle in females, and repeatability was comparable to that in males. This should facilitate inclusion of female subjects into vascular function studies using PAT.
On Classification of PDZ Domains: A Computational Study
Authors: Aftab Wasim , Memic Adnan , Baleanu Dumitru
Published: October 2013

Our goal in this present study is to introduce new wavelet based methods for differentiating and classifying Class I and Class II PDZ domains and compare the resulting signals. PDZ domains represent one of the most common protein homology regions playing key roles in several diseases. To perform the classification, we developed two methods. The first of our methods was comparable to the standard wavelet approaches while the second one surpasses it in recognition accuracy. Our models exhibited interesting results, and we anticipate that it can be used as a computational technique to screen out the misfit candidates and to reduce the search space, while achieving high classification and accuracy.
Thermal Distribution of Ultrasound Waves in Prostate Tumor: Comparison of Computational Modeling with In Vivo Experiments
Authors: Jafarian Dehkordi Forough , Shakeri-Zadeh Ali , Khoei Samideh , Ghadiri Hossein , Shiran Mohammad-Bagher
Published: October 2013

Ultrasound irradiation to a certain site of the body affects the efficacy of drug delivery through changes in the permeability of cell membrane. Temperature increase in irradiated area may be affected by frequency, intensity, period of ultrasound, and blood perfusion. The aim of present study is to use computer simulation and offer an appropriate model for thermal distribution profile in prostate tumor. Moreover, computer model was validated by in vivo experiments. Method. Computer simulation was performed with COMSOL software. Experiments were carried out on prostate tumor induced in nude mice (DU145 cell line originated from human prostate cancer) at frequency of 3 MHz and intensities of 0.3, 0.5, and 1 w/cm2 for 300 seconds. Results. Computer simulations showed a temperature rise of the tumor for the applied intensities of 0.3, 0.5 and 1 w/cm2 of 0.8, 0.9, and 1.1°C, respectively. The experimental data carried out at the same frequency demonstrated that temperature increase was 0.5, 0.9, and 1.4°C for the above intensities. It was noticed that temperature rise was very sharp for the first few seconds of ultrasound irradiation and then increased moderately. Conclusion. Obtained data holds great promise to develop a model which is able to predict temperature distribution profile in vivo condition.
Effect of Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP) on NKG2D Signal Pathway and Its Contribution to Immune Escape of MKN45 Cells
Authors: Wang Chong , Zhou Xi-Jin , Li Yuan-yuan , Wan Juan , Yang Le-ying , Li Guo-Hua
Published: October 2013

Objective. To investigate VIP effect on the cytotoxicity of NK cell to gastric cancer cells in vitro and the relation between the effect with the NKG2D signal molecules in NK cells. Material and Methods. NK cells were purified from peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC). Before and after NK cells were incubated with VIP or its antagonist (D‐p‐Cl‐Phe6,Leu17)‐VIP, we detected the cytotoxicity of NK cells to MKN45 gastric cancer cells by MTT and detected the expressions of NKG2D, DAP10, and NF‐κB proteins and mRNAs in NK cells by immunocytochemistry and RT‐PCR in those conditions. Then we analyzed the effect of VIP and its antagonist on the cytotocicity of NK cell to gastric cancer cells and on expressions of NKG2D, DAP10, and NF‐κB signal molecules in NK cells. Results. VIP could inhibit the cytotoxicity of NK cells to MKN45 cells and could inhibit the expressions of NKG2D, DAP10, and NF‐κB in NK cells. However, (D‐p‐Cl‐Phe6, Leu17)‐VIP could reverse those effects. Conclusions. The VIP inhibited the cytotoxicity of NK cell to MKN45 cells which might get through inhibiting the expressions of NKG2D signal molecules in NK cells. This may be one mechanism of gastric cancer cells escaping organism immune clearance.
Uncertainty in Interval Type-2 Fuzzy Systems
Authors: Aminifar Sadegh , Marzuki Arjuna
Published: October 2013

This paper studies uncertainty and its effect on system response displacement. The paper also describes how IT2MFs (interval type-2 membership functions) differentiate from T1MFs (type-1 membership functions) by adding uncertainty. The effect of uncertainty is modeled clearly by introducing a technique that describes how uncertainty causes membership degree reduction and changing the fuzzy word meanings in fuzzy logic controllers (FLCs). Several criteria are discussed for the measurement of the imbalance rate of internal uncertainty and its effect on system behavior. Uncertainty removal is introduced to observe the effect of uncertainty on the output. The theorem of uncertainty avoidance is presented for describing the role of uncertainty in interval type-2 fuzzy systems (IT2FSs). Another objective of this paper is to derive a novel uncertainty measure for IT2MFs with lower complexity and clearer presentation. Finally, for proving the affectivity of novel interpretation of uncertainty in IT2FSs, several investigations are done.
Evidence for Prion-Like Mechanisms in Several Neurodegenerative Diseases: Potential Implications for Immunotherapy
Authors: Marciniuk Kristen , Taschuk Ryan , Napper Scott
Published: October 2013

Transmissible spongiform encephalopathies (TSEs) are fatal, untreatable neurodegenerative diseases. While the impact of TSEs on human health is relatively minor, these diseases are having a major influence on how we view, and potentially treat, other more common neurodegenerative disorders. Until recently, TSEs encapsulated a distinct category of neurodegenerative disorder, exclusive in their defining characteristic of infectivity. It now appears that similar mechanisms of self-propagation may underlie other proteinopathies such as Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, and Huntington’s disease. This link is of scientific interest and potential therapeutic importance as this route of self-propagation offers conceptual support and guidance for vaccine development efforts. Specifically, the existence of a pathological, self-promoting isoform offers a rational vaccine target. Here, we review the evidence of prion-like mechanisms within a number of common neurodegenerative disorders and speculate on potential implications and opportunities for vaccine development.
A Fast Region-Based Segmentation Model with Gaussian Kernel of Fractional Order
Authors: Chen Bo , Zou Qing-Hua , Chen Wen-Sheng , Li Yan
Published: October 2013

By summarizing some classical active contour models from the view of level set representation, a simple energy function expression with the Gaussian kernel of fractional order is proposed, and then a novel region-based geometric active contour model is established. In this proposed model, the energy function with value of [−1, 1] is built, the local mean and global mean of the inside and outside of the evolution curve are employed, and the segmentation results are obtained by controlling the expansion and contraction of the evolution curve. The model is simple and easy to implement; it can also protect weak edges because of considering more statistical information. Experimental results on synthetic and natural images show that the proposed model is much more effective in dealing with the images with weak or blurred edges, and it takes less time.
Effect of Testing Rate on Adhesion Properties of Acrylonitrile-Butadiene Rubber/Standard Malaysian Rubber Blend-Based Pressure-Sensitive Adhesive
Authors: Poh B. T. , Lamaming Junidah
Published: October 2013

The dependence of loop tack, peel strength, and shear strength of NBR/SMR L blend-based pressure-sensitive adhesives on the rate of testing was investigated using coumarone-indene resin and toluene as the tackifier and solvent, respectively. A 40% NBR content in the NBR/SMR L blend was used throughout the experiment. The adhesion properties were measured by a Lloyd Adhesion Tester operating at different rates of testing. The result indicates that loop tack, peels strength, and shear strength increase with the rate of testing due to the viscoelastic response of the adhesive. At low testing rate, the failure mode is cohesive in nature whereas adhesion failure mode occurs at higher testing rates. Adhesion properties also increase with the increase in adhesive coating thickness, an observation which is attributed to the wettability of the adhesive and viscoelastic behavior of the rubber blend.
Further Results about Traveling Wave Exact Solutions of the Drinfeld-Sokolov Equations
Authors: Zhang Fu , Qi Jian-ming , Yuan Wen-jun
Published: October 2013

We employ the complex method to obtain all meromorphic exact solutions of complex Drinfeld-Sokolov equations (DS system of equations). The idea introduced in this paper can be applied to other nonlinear evolution equations. Our results show that all constant and simply periodic traveling wave exact solutions of the equations (DS) are solitary wave solutions, the complex method is simpler than other methods and there exist simply periodic solutionsvs,3(z)which are not only new but also not degenerated successively by the elliptic function solutions. We believe that this method should play an important role for finding exact solutions in the mathematical physics. For these new traveling wave solutions, we give some computer simulations to illustrate our main results.
Motorcycle Related Injuries among Rural Dwellers in Irrua, Nigeria: Characteristics and Correlates
Authors: Dongo A. E. , Kesieme E. B. , Eighemherio A. , Nwokike O. , Esezobor E. , Alufohai E.
Published: October 2013

Background. The escalating use of motorcycle for commercial transportation of commuters and goods has resulted in an increase in morbidity and mortality from road traffic injuries.Objectives. To study the characteristics of motorcycle injuries seen in Irrua, Nigeria.Materials and Methods. This is a one-year prospective study of all patients seen from January 1, 2009, to December 31, 2009. A structured proforma was filled for all consecutive crash victims involving a motorcycle.Results. Motorcycle injuries accounted for 11.6% of attendance in surgical emergency room (142 out of 1,214); 76.8% were males. Amongst victims 47.1% were riders, 42.9%, passengers, and 7.8% pedestrians. Extremity injury accounted for 42.2% while head injury occurred in 21.8%. There were 9 deaths (6.3%). In this study no victim used crash helmet.Conclusion. Banning of motorcycle for commercial use and the introduction of tricycles into rural/suburban comminutes may be an important preventive strategy.
The Impacts ofEx SituTransplantation on the Physiology of the Taiwanese Reef-Building CoralSeriatopora hystrix
Authors: Mayfield Anderson B. , Fan Tung-Yung , Chen Chii-Shiarng
Published: October 2013

We sought to determine whether the Indo-Pacific reef-building coralSeriatopora hystrixperforms in a similar manner in the laboratory as it doesin situby measuringSymbiodiniumdensity, chlorophyll a (chl-a) concentration, and the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II (FV/FM) at the time of field sampling (in situ), as well as after three weeks of acclimation and one week of experimentation (ex situ).Symbiodiniumdensity was similar between corals of the two study sites, Houbihu (an upwelling reef) and Houwan (a nonupwelling reef), and also remained at similar levelsex situasin situ. On the other hand, both areal and cell-specific chl-aconcentrations approximately doubledex siturelative toin situ, an increase that may be due to having employed a light regime that differed from that experienced by these corals on the reefs of southern Taiwan from which they were collected. As this change inSymbiodiniumchl-acontent was documented in corals of both sites, the experiment itself was not biased by this difference. Furthermore,FV/FMincreased by only 1%ex siturelative toin situ, indicating that the corals maintained a similar level of photosynthetic performance as displayedin situeven after one month in captivity.
The Use of Computed Tomography of Pulmonary Angiogram in a District Hospital
Authors: Kim Bomi , Hills Matthew , Beckert Lutz
Published: October 2013

Background. Computed tomography of pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) is a widely used investigation in patients with suspected pulmonary embolism (PE). It is not without adverse effects either through contrast injection or radiation exposure. International guidelines suggest that patients with a low/intermediate clinical probability and negative D-dimer do not require CTPA to exclude PE. Method. A retrospective audit of 100 consecutive CTPA scans was performed at a district general hospital from January to May 2012 to assess adherence to the current guidelines for diagnosis of acute PE and utilisation of CTPA. Result. Of the total 88 CTPA scans that were included in the study, 14% were positive for PE. At least 6%, potentially up to 30% of all the scans, could have been avoided by adherence to current guidelines, thereby improving the positive yield to as high as 19%. Clinical probability scores were documented in only 3%. Orthopaedics requested 3% of all scans and the Assessment Treatment and Rehabilitation (ATR) unit had the highest number of CTPA requests per 100 departmental inpatient admissions. Conclusion. Adherence to the current guidelines can reduce the number of CTPA scans required and may reduce cost, contrast exposure, and radiation burden.
Development and Evaluation of Solid Lipid Nanoparticles of Raloxifene Hydrochloride for Enhanced Bioavailability
Authors: Kushwaha Anand Kumar , Vuddanda Parameswara Rao , Karunanidhi Priyanka , Singh Sanjay Kumar , Singh Sanjay
Published: October 2013

Raloxifene hydrochloride (RL-HCL) is an orally selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) with poor bioavailability of nearly 2% due to its poor aqueous solubility and extensive first pass metabolism. In order to improve the oral bioavailability of raloxifene, raloxifene loaded solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) have been developed using Compritol 888 ATO as lipid carrier and Pluronic F68 as surfactant. Raloxifene loaded SLN were prepared by solvent emulsification/evaporation method, and different concentrations of surfactant, and homogenization speed were taken as process variables for optimization. SLN were characterized for particle size, zeta potential, entrapment efficiency, surface morphology, and crystallinity of lipid and drug.In vitrodrug release studies were performed in phosphate buffer of pH 6.8 using dialysis bag diffusion technique. Particle sizes of all the formulations were in the range of 250 to 1406 nm, and the entrapment efficiency ranges from 55 to 66%. FTIR and DSC studies indicated no interaction between drug and lipid, and the XRD spectrum showed that RL-HCL is in amorphous form in the formulation.In vitrorelease profiles were biphasic in nature and followed Higuchi model of release kinetics. Pharmacokinetics of raloxifene loaded solid lipid nanoparticles after oral administration to Wistar rats was studied. Bioavailability of RL-HCL loaded SLN was nearly five times than that of pure RL-HCL.
Idiopathic Hirsutism and Insulin Resistance
Authors: Talaei Afsaneh , Adgi Zahra , Mohamadi Kelishadi Mahnaz
Published: October 2013

Background and Objectives. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and idiopathic hirsutism (HI) are the two most common causes of hirsutism. Insulin resistance plays a key role in PCOS, but there are not enough data showing that patients with HI also have insulin resistance. This study was designed to evaluate the presence of insulin resistance in women with HI.Methods. Based on a cross-sectional study, two groups of age-BMI matched, hirsute women were compared to age-BMI matched, nonhirsute women. Sixty nonobese women with PCOS, thirty nonobese women with HI, and sixty nonobese control women were included in the study. Samples of hormones including androgens were measured. Insulin resistance based on homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was compared between three groups by the Kruskal-Wallis test.Results. Patients with PCOS had significantly higher basal insulin level (16.04±1.4versus7.32±6.85 μIu/mL) and HOMA-IR score (3.7±3.36versus1.75±1.67) than patients with HI (P  0.001). Patients with HI also had significantly higher basal insulin level and HOMA-IR score than control group (P  0.001).Conclusion. Our data suggest that both PCOS and HI are associated with insulin resistance and these patients are more insulin resistant than healthy control people.
Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin: Its Response to Hypoxia and Association with Acute Mountain Sickness
Authors: Mellor Adrian , Boos Christopher , Stacey Mike , Hooper Tim , Smith Chris , Begley Joe , Yarker Jo , Piper Rick , O'Hara John , King Rod , Turner Steve , Woods David R.
Published: October 2013

Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) is a common clinical challenge at high altitude (HA). A point-of-care biochemical marker for AMS could have widespread utility. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) rises in response to renal injury, inflammation and oxidative stress. We investigated whether NGAL rises with HA and if this rise was related to AMS, hypoxia or exercise. NGAL was assayed in a cohort (n=22) undertaking 6 hours exercise at near sea-level (SL); a cohort (n=14) during 3 hours of normobaric hypoxia (FiO2 11.6%) and on two trekking expeditions (n=52) to over 5000 m. NGAL did not change with exercise at SL or following normobaric hypoxia. During the trekking expeditions NGAL levels (ng/ml, mean ± sd, range) rose significantly (P<0.001) from 68 ± 14 (60–102) at 1300 m to 183 ± 107 (65–519); 143 ± 66 (60–315) and 150 ± 71 (60–357) at 3400 m, 4270 m and 5150 m respectively. At 5150 m there was a significant difference in NGAL between those with severe AMS (n=7), mild AMS (n=16) or no AMS (n=23): 201 ± 34 versus 171 ± 19 versus 124 ± 12 respectively (P=0.009for severe versus no AMS;P=0.026for mild versus no AMS). In summary, NGAL rises in response to prolonged hypobaric hypoxia and demonstrates a relationship to the presence and severity of AMS.
Evaluating the Structure of Enemy Biodiversity Effects on Prey Informs Pest Management
Authors: Casula Paolo , Nannini Mauro
Published: October 2013

Evaluating the structure of enemy biodiversity effects on prey in agroecosystems can provide insights into biological pest control functioning. With this aim, theoretical models that describe biological mechanisms underlying prey suppression can be developed and confronted with experimental data by means of model selection. Here, we confront multiplicative risk models to evaluate the structure of multiple predator effects on the whitefly Trialeurodes vaporariorum provided in tomatoes by two spiders (Oxyopes lineatus and Pityohyphantes phrygianus) and two mirids (Nesidiocoris tenuis and Macrolophus melanotoma). Biologically meaningful parameters retained in the best models showed that several predator traits differently affected pest control: species-specific per capita predation rates, prey use extent, different type of interactions between predators, and the response of predator species to prey density and environmental temperature. Even from a limited perspective of single-pest control and short term experiment, this study suggests that assembly of the four predator species results in predator complementarity across prey life stages and density, interactions of prey and predators with environmental conditions, and interactions between predators that do not result in whitefly control disruption. Such information about enemy biodiversity and whitefly control functioning can drive hypotheses about sustainable pest management options in local agroecosystems.
Facilitating Ambulatory Electronic Health Record System Implementation: Evidence from a Qualitative Study
Authors: McAlearney Ann Scheck , Sieck Cynthia , Hefner Jennifer , Robbins Julie , Huerta Timothy R.
Published: October 2013

Background. Ambulatory care practices have increasing interest in leveraging the capabilities of electronic health record (EHR) systems, but little information is available documenting how organizations have successfully implemented these systems.Objective. To characterize elements of successful electronic health record (EHR) system implementation and to synthesize the key informants' perspectives about successful implementation practices.Methods. Key informant interviews and focus groups were conducted with a purposive sample of individuals from US healthcare organizations identified for their success with ambulatory EHR implementation. Rigorous qualitative data analyses used both deductive and inductive methods.Results. Participants identified personal and system-related barriers, at both the individual and organization levels, including poor computer skills, productivity losses, resistance to change, and EHR system failure. Implementation success was reportedly facilitated by careful planning and consistent communication throughout distinct stages of the implementation process. A significant element of successful implementation was an emphasis on optimization, both during “go-live” and, subsequently, when users had more experience with the system.Conclusion. Successful EHR implementation requires both detailed planning and clear mechanisms to deal with unforeseen or unintended consequences. Focusing on user buy-in early and including plans for optimization can facilitate greater success.
A1180V of Cardiac Sodium Channel Gene (SCN5A): Is It a Risk Factor for Dilated Cardiomyopathy or Just a Common Variant in Han Chinese?
Authors: Shen Cheng , Xu Lei , Yang Zhiyin , Zou Yunzeng , Hu Kai , Fan Zheng , Ge Junbo , Sun Aijun
Published: October 2013

Our previous study of a Chinese family with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) suggested that A1180V of the cardiac sodium channel gene (SCN5A) was associated with the disease within this family. According to data deposited in dbSNP, however, A1180V has been found in some small samples of the Asian population. In this study, we followed up the affected pedigree and expanded the investigation of the prevalence of A1180V in 460 unrelated healthy Han Chinese. Besides, we searched and analyzed it in other database as well. During the follow-up period, 1 A1180V carrier’s condition deteriorated alot, and another 4 carriers progressed to DCM or atrioventricular block (AVB). We also found that the A1180V was absent among the 460 individuals (0%, 0/460), and the carrier frequency of A1180V among Chinese was about 0.51% obtained from the 1000 genome project. In conclusion, our finding suggests that A1180V is a potential risk factor for DCM, and it is extremely rare among Healthy Han Chinese.
Effect of Mechanical Stress on Magnetic States and Hysteresis Characteristics of a Two‐Phase Nanoparticles System
Authors: Afremov Leonid Lazarevich , Ilyushin Ilia Gennadievich
Published: October 2013

In terms of the two‐phase nanoparticles model, the effect of mechanical stress on the magnetic state of both uniaxial and multiaxial heterophase magnetic is investigated. The spectrum of critical fields of reversal of phases′ magnetic moments was calculated and phase diagrams were drawn to assess the effect of mechanical stress on the degree of metastability of two‐phase nanoparticles′ magnetic states. By the example of epitaxial cobalt‐coated γ‐Fe2O3 particles, a theoretical analysis of the effect of uniaxial mechanical stress on the magnetization of a system of noninteracting heterophase nanoparticles is investigated. It was shown that tension reduced and compression increased coercive force Hc, while the residual saturation magnetization Irs was not changed under the influence of mechanical stress.
Martingale Morrey-Hardy and Campanato-Hardy Spaces
Authors: Nakai Eiichi , Sadasue Gaku , Sawano Yoshihiro
Published: October 2013

We introduce generalized Morrey-Campanato spaces of martingales, which generalize both martingale Lipschitz spaces introduced by Weisz (1990) and martingale Morrey-Campanato spaces introduced in 2012. We also introduce generalized Morrey-Hardy and Campanato-Hardy spaces of martingales and study Burkholder-type equivalence. We give some results on the boundedness of fractional integrals of martingales on these spaces.
Reflected Backward Stochastic Differential Equations Driven by Countable Brownian Motions
Authors: Duan Pengju , Ren Min , Fei Shilong
Published: October 2013

This paper deals with a new class of reflected backward stochastic differential equations driven by countable Brownian motions. The existence and uniqueness of the RBSDEs are obtained via Snell envelope and fixed point theorem.
Antimicrobial Activities of Leaf Extracts of Guava (Psidium guajavaL.) on Two Gram-Negative and Gram-Positive Bacteria
Authors: Biswas Bipul , Rogers Kimberly , McLaughlin Fredrick , Daniels Dwayne , Yadav Anand
Published: October 2013

Aim.To determine the antimicrobial potential of guava (Psidium guajava) leaf extracts against two gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coliandSalmonella enteritidis) and two gram-positive bacteria (Staphylococcus aureusandBacillus cereus) which are some of foodborne and spoilage bacteria. The guava leaves were extracted in four different solvents of increasing polarities (hexane, methanol, ethanol, and water). The efficacy of these extracts was tested against those bacteria through a well-diffusion method employing 50 μL leaf-extract solution per well. According to the findings of the antibacterial assay, the methanol and ethanol extracts of the guava leaves showed inhibitory activity against gram-positive bacteria, whereas the gram-negative bacteria were resistant to all the solvent extracts. The methanol extract had an antibacterial activity with mean zones of inhibition of 8.27 and 12.3 mm, and the ethanol extract had a mean zone of inhibition of 6.11 and 11.0 mm againstB. cereusandS. aureus, respectively. On the basis of the present finding, guava leaf-extract might be a good candidate in the search for a natural antimicrobial agent. This study provides scientific understanding to further determine the antimicrobial values and investigate other pharmacological properties.
Numerical Solution of Uncertain Beam Equations Using Double Parametric Form of Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Tapaswini Smita , Chakraverty S.
Published: October 2013

Present paper proposes a new technique to solve uncertain beam equation using double parametric form of fuzzy numbers. Uncertainties appearing in the initial conditions are taken in terms of triangular fuzzy number. Using the single parametric form, the fuzzy beam equation is converted first to an interval-based fuzzy differential equation. Next, this differential equation is transformed to crisp form by applying double parametric form of fuzzy number. Finally, the same is solved by homotopy perturbation method (HPM) to obtain the uncertain responses subject to unit step and impulse loads. Obtained results are depicted in terms of plots to show the efficiency and powerfulness of the methodology.
Preparation and Characterization of Polyurethane/Nanocopper Composites and Their Application in Intrauterine Devices
Authors: Chen Yongjun , Luo Yuanfang , Jia Zhixin , Jia Demin , Wang Jue
Published: October 2013

A novel intrauterine devices material, polyurethane/nano‐copper (PU/NC) nanocomposite,
was prepared. The structure, morphology, copper ion (Cu2+) release rate, and water
absorption of PU/NC nanocomposites were investigated. The results indicated that the nanocoppers
were uniformly dispersed in the matrix. The release rates of Cu2+ of PU/NC nanocomposites
remained stable during the experimentation time. These results indicated that the PU/NC nanocomposites
have a great potential to replace current commercial intrauterine devices materials.
Prospective Single-Site Experience with Radiofrequency-Targeted Vertebral Augmentation for Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fracture
Authors: Moser Franklin G. , Maya Marcel M. , Blaszkiewicz Laura , Scicli Andrea , Miller Larry E. , Block Jon E.
Published: October 2013

Vertebral augmentation procedures are widely used to treat osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (VCFs). We report our initial experience with radiofrequency-targeted vertebral augmentation (RF-TVA) in 20 patients aged 50 to 90 years with single-level, symptomatic osteoporotic VCF between T10 and L5, back pain severity > 4 on a 0 to 10 scale, Oswestry Disability Index ≥ 21%, 20% to 90% vertebral height loss compared to adjacent vertebral body, and fracture age < 6 months. After treatment, patients were followed through hospital discharge and returned for visits after 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Back pain severity improved 66% (P<0.001), from 7.9 (95% CI: 7.1 to 8.6) at pretreatment to 2.7 (95% CI: 1.5 to 4.0) at 3 months. Back function improved 46% (P<0.001), from 74 (95% CI: 69% to 79%) at pretreatment to 40 (95% CI: 33% to 47%) at 3 months. The percentage of patients regularly consuming pain medication was 70% at pretreatment and only 21% at 3 months. No adverse events related to the device or procedure were reported. RF-TVA reduces back pain severity, improves back function, and reduces pain medication requirements with no observed complications in patients with osteoporotic VCF.
Efficacy of Crest Herbal Toothpaste in “Clearing Internal Heat”: A Randomized, Double-Blind Clinical Study
Authors: Chen Jia-Xu , Liu Yue-Yun , Wang Shao-Xian , Li Xiao-Hong
Published: October 2013

Objective. Evaluation of the efficacy of Crest Herbal Crystal Toothpaste in “clearing internal heat.”Methods. This was a randomized, double-blind, controlled parallel design clinical test of a product that was already on the market. 72 subjects were randomly assigned to control group (group A with Colgate Herbal Salty Toothpaste) or treatment group (group B with Crest Herbal Crystal Toothpaste) with ratio of 1 : 2. Subjects were instructed to brush with 1g toothpaste for 2 minutes each time, 2 times per day in a 4-aweek test period; measurement with the rating scale on the efficacy of “clearing internal heat” for the herbal toothpaste was done at baseline, 2 weeks, and 4 weeks of toothpaste usage.Results. The rating scale on efficacy of “clearing internal heat” for the herbal toothpaste reveals that the primitive points of 72-case intention-to-treat (ITT) analysis and 67-case per-protocol (PP) analysis for subjects in group A and subjects in group B were found to be reduced progressively with statistical significance (P<0.05). The overall effective rates for group A and group B were, respectively, 62.50%, 56.25% (ITT) and 62.50%, 60.64% (PP). The statistical results indicated that the symptoms of fire-heat for both groups of subjects have been improved after application of toothpaste.Conclusion. The efficacy of Crest Herbal Crystal Toothpaste in “clearing internal heat” was confirmed by the trial as compared to Colgate Herbal Salty Toothpaste. And its efficacy was objectively evaluated by the rating scale on efficacy of “clearing internal heat.”
Role of Nanolaminated Crystal Structure on the Radiation Damage Tolerance of Ti3SiC2: Theoretical Investigation of Native Point Defects
Authors: Zhang Haibin , Wang Jiemin , Wang Jingyang , Zhou Yanchun , Peng Shuming , Long Xinggui
Published: October 2013

Nanolaminated Ti3SiC2, a representative MAX phase,
shows excellent tolerance to radiation damage. In this paper, first‐principles
calculations were used to investigate the mechanism of intrinsic point defects
in order to explain this outstanding property. Formation energies of intrinsic point
defects are calculated and compared; and the results establish a low‐energy disorder
mechanism in Ti3SiC2. In addition, the migration energy
barriers of Si vacancy, Si interstitial, and TiSi antisite yield very low values: 0.9, 0.6, and 0.3 eV, respectively.
The intercalation of Si atomic plane between Ti3C2 nanotwinning
structures dominates the formation and migration of intrinsic native point defects
in Ti3SiC2. The present study also highlights a novel method
to improve radiation damage tolerance by developing nanoscale‐layered structure which
can serve as a sink or rapid recovery channel for point defects.
Regional Climate Variability Responses to Future Land Surface Forcing in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Zhang Tao , Zhan Jinyan , Wu Feng , Luo Jiao , Huang Juan
Published: October 2013

Tropical deforestation could destabilize regional climate changes. This paper aimed to model the potential climatological variability caused by future forest vulnerability in the Brazilian Amazon over the 21th century. The underlying land surface changes between 2005 and 2100 are first projected based on the respectable output produced by Hurtt et al. Then the weather research and forecasting (WRF) model is applied to assess the impacts of future deforestation on regional climate during 2090–2100. The study results show that the forests in the Brazilian Amazon will primarily be converted into dryland cropland and pasture in the northwest part and into cropland/woodland mosaic in the southeast part, with 5.12% and 13.11%, respectively. These land surface changes will therefore lead to the significant reduction of the sum of sensible heat flux and latent heat flux and precipitation and the increase of the surface temperature. Furthermore, the variability of surface temperature is observed with close link to the deforested areas.
Extending Stochastic Network Calculus to Loss Analysis
Authors: Luo Chao , Yu Li , Zheng Jun
Published: October 2013

Loss is an important parameter of Quality of Service (QoS). Though stochastic network calculus is a very useful tool for performance evaluation of computer networks, existing studies on stochastic service guarantees mainly focused on the delay and backlog. Some efforts have been made to analyse loss by deterministic network calculus, but there are few results to extend stochastic network calculus for loss analysis. In this paper, we introduce a new parameter named loss factor into stochastic network calculus and then derive the loss bound through the existing arrival curve and service curve via this parameter. We then prove that our result is suitable for the networks with multiple input flows. Simulations show the impact of buffer size, arrival traffic, and service on the loss factor.
Sarcomatoid Carcinoma of Male Urethra with Bone and Lung Metastases Presenting as Urethral Stricture
Authors: Badhiwala Niraj , Chan Robert , Zhou Hai-Jun , Shen Steven , Coburn Michael
Published: October 2013

A 57-year-old man who presented with urinary retention was found to have a sarcomatoid carcinoma of the urethra. Evaluation with CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis revealed multiple pulmonary nodules and osteolytic lesions of left posterior ribs. After external beam radiation therapy and six cycles of systemic chemotherapy, patient underwent a surgical resection of the urethral cancer. After his surgery, patient was also found to have multiple brain metastases and underwent whole brain radiation therapy, nine months after his initial diagnosis. Sarcomatoid carcinomas of the genitourinary tract are extremely rare tumors that require a very aggressive, multimodal treatment approach.