bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise Training in Athletes with Bicuspid Aortic Valve Does Not Result in Increased Dimensions and Impaired Performance of the Left Ventricle
Authors: Stefani Laura , Galanti Giorgio , Innocenti Gabriele , Mercuri Roberto , Maffulli Nicola
Published: January 2014

Background.Bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) is one of the most common congenital heart disease (0.9%–2%) and is frequently found in the athletes and in the general population. BAV can lead to aortic valve dysfunction and to a progressive aortic dilatation. Trained BAV athletes exhibit a progressive enlargement of the left ventricle (LV) compared to athletes with normal aortic valve morphology. The present study investigates the possible relationship between different aortic valve morphology and LV dimensions.Methods.In the period from 2000 to 2011, we investigated a total of 292 BAV subjects, divided into three different groups (210 athletes, 59 sedentaries, and 23 ex-athletes). A 2D echocardiogram exam to classify BAV morphology and measure the standard LV systo-diastolic parameters was performed. The study was conducted as a 5-year follow-up echocardiographic longitudinal and as cross-sectional study.Results.Typical BAV was more frequent in all three groups (68% athletes, 67% sedentaries, and 63% ex-athletes) than atypical. In BAV athletes, the typical form was found in 51% (107/210) of soccer players, 10% (21/210) of basketball players, 10% track and field athletics (20/210), 8% (17/210) of cyclists, 6% (13/210) swimmers, and 15% (32/210) of rugby players and others sport. Despite a progressive enlargement of the LV (P<0.001) observed during the follow-up study, no statistical differences of the LV morphology and function were evident among the diverse BAV patterns either in sedentary subjects or in athletes.Conclusion.In a large population of trained BAV athletes, with different prevalence of typical and atypical BAV type, there is a progressive nonstatistically significant enlargement of the LV. In any case, the dimensions of the LV remained within normal range. The metabolic requirements of the diverse sport examined in the present investigations do not seem to produce any negative impact in BAV athletes
Chemotherapy Improved Prognosis of Mesenchymal Chondrosarcoma with Rare Metastasis to the Pancreas
Authors: Tsukamoto Shinji , Honoki Kanya , Kido Akira , Fujii Hiromasa , Enomoto Yasunori , Ohbayashi Chiho , Tanaka Yasuhito
Published: January 2014

Extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma is rare and metastasis to the pancreas is extremely rare, with only four cases reported in the literature. The therapeutic effectiveness of chemotherapy remains uncertain. We report a 39-year-old man with extraskeletal mesenchymal chondrosarcoma of the buttock, who had metastases to the pancreas, bones, and lung. He underwent distal pancreatectomy, resection of the buttock tumor, and chemotherapy. He had a good response to chemotherapy and survived for about 3 years after surgery.
Numerical Simulation and Analysis of CO2Removal in a Polypropylene Hollow Fiber Membrane Contactor
Authors: Zhang Zhien , Yan Yunfei , Zhang Li , Ju Shunxiang
Published: January 2014

This present study shows a comprehensive 2D numerical model for removal of CO2in a polypropylene (PP) hollow fiber membrane contactor (HFMC) using the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method. Monoethanolamine (MEA) solution was used as the liquid absorbent in a nonwetting mode. The simulation results represented that higher liquid velocity and concentration and lower gas velocity and concentration led to higher percent of CO2removal. The most proper parameters for CO2removal were less than 1 mol m−3gas concentration and 0.2 m s−1gas flow rate, and for MEA the values were above 8 mol m−3concentration and approximately 1 m s−1liquid velocity. Furthermore, the model was validated with the experiment results. Therefore, the modeling results provided references to the selection of absorbents and operation parameters in the experimental study and pilot-scale applications.
Terminalia arjunain Chronic Stable Angina: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Kaur Navjot , Shafiq Nusrat , Negi Harish , Pandey Avaneesh , Reddy Srinivas , Kaur Harpreet , Chadha Neelima , Malhotra Samir
Published: January 2014

Background.Terminalia arjunais a popular Indian medicinal plant with its bark been used for over centuries as cardiotonic. The bark has been found to contain several bioactive compounds including saponins and flavonoids. A number of experimental and clinical studies have been conducted to explore therapeutic potential ofTerminalia arjunain cardiovascular ailments specially in patients of coronary heart disease. A number of narrative reviews have been done but no systematic review has been conducted to date.Objective. To systematically review and conduct a meta-analysis on the available literature evaluating the efficacy ofTerminalia arjunain patients of chronic stable angina.Study selection. We included randomised, pseudo-randomized and before-after comparative studies which comparedTerminalia arjuna/commercial preparation ofTerminalia arjunawith current standard/ conventional treatment regimens in patients with chronic stable angina.Findings. Studies were found to be of poor methodological design. We found no significant difference in theTerminalia arjunagroup as compared to control arm in the outcomes for which we were able to pool data and undertake meta-analysis.Conclusions. Currently, the evidence is insufficient to draw any definite conclusions in favour of or againstTerminalia arjunain patients of chronic stable angina. Further, well-controlled multicentric clinical trials need to be conducted in large number of patients to explore the therapeutic potential ofTerminalia arjunaif any.
Response of Dry Bean to Sulfentrazone Plus Imazethapyr
Authors: Soltani Nader , Shropshire Christy , Sikkema Peter H.
Published: January 2014

Field studies were conducted in 2010 and 2011 at the Huron Research Station, Exeter, Ontario and from 2009 to 2011 at the University of Guelph Ridgetown Campus, Ridgetown, Ontario to evaluate the sensitivity of four market classes of dry bean to sulfentrazone applied preemergence at 105, 140, and 280 g ai/ha alone and in combination with imazethapyr at 37.5 g ai/ha. At 1 week after emergence (WAE), sulfentrazone alone or in combination with imazethapyr at all doses evaluated caused no significant visible injury in dry bean. At 2 WAE, sulfentrazone alone caused 1–11, 1–11, 1–5, and 3–19% visible injury, and sulfentrazone + imazethapyr caused 3–11, 2–10, 2–5, and 4–20% visible injury in black, cranberry, kidney, and white bean, respectively. At 4 WAE, sulfentrazone alone caused 1–7, 1–7, 0–4, and 1–16% visible injury and sulfentrazone + imazethapyr caused 1–8, 1–5, 1–3, and 2–14% visible injury in black, cranberry, kidney, and white bean, respectively. Sulfentrazone PRE caused slightly greater injury in black and white bean compared to cranberry and kidney bean. Generally, crop injury with sulfentrazone at rates up to 140 g ai/ha alone and in combination with imazethapyr at 37.5 g ai/ha was minimal with no adverse effect on plant height, shoot dry weight, seed moisture content, and yield. Based on these results, there is potential for preemergence application of sulfentrazone at rates up to 140 g ai/ha alone or in combination with imazethapyr at 37.5 g ai/ha in black, cranberry, kidney and white bean.
Factors Associated with the Differences in Migraine Prevalence Rates between Spanish Regions
Authors: Matias-Guiu Jorge , Fernandez Cristina , Porta-Etessam Jesús , Mateos Valentin , Diaz-Insa Samuel
Published: January 2014

We have analyzed the relation of prevalence rates in Spanish regions with a series of human, environmental, and ecological factors. We find that the variability in migraine rates found between Spanish regions may be explained by interregional differences in the percentage of daily smokers, percentage of alcohol consumers, percentage of population presenting physical and/or psychological life-limiting conditions, percentage of population engaging in physical exercise, minimum absolute temperatures per year, number of days under 0°C per year, and altitude.
Boundary Value Problems for Fourth Order Nonlinearp-Laplacian Difference Equations
Authors: Zhang Qinqin
Published: January 2014

We consider the boundary value problem for a fourth order nonlinearp-Laplacian difference equation containing both advance and retardation. By using Mountain pass lemma and some established inequalities, sufficient conditions of the existence of solutions of the boundary value problem are obtained. And an illustrative example is given in the last part of the paper.
Coloplasty Neorectum versus Straight Anastomosis in Low Rectal Cancers
Authors: Parray Fazl Q. , Magray Javaid A. , Dar Manzoor Ahmad , Chowdri Nisar A. , Wani Rauf A. , Thakur Natasha
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Patients with the diagnosis of carcinoma rectum after random allocation were assigned to 2 groups. One group was subjected to total mesorectal excision with coloplasty neorectum reconstruction and another group to total mesorectal excision with straight anastomosis. This randomization was done by odds and even method by the sister in charge of the ward to avoid bias in randomization. The study included 42 patients with diagnosis of carcinoma rectum from 4 to 12 centimeters from anal verge. Composite incontinence score, bladder function, and sexual function were considered as the main outcome measures. Results. All patients of transverse coloplasty group had mild or moderate composite incontinence score while 7 (36.8%) patients of straight anastomosis group had a severe score at 7th POD (P<0.05). At 6 months, 100% patients in transverse coloplasty group had a nil score which was not achieved by any of the patients in the other group. An intragroup comparison showed an improvement in score with time in both groups more marked in transverse coloplasty group. Conclusion. Transverse coloplasty group showed a better QOL so far as anal incontinence is considered. However, no statistically significant difference was achieved when comparing bladder and sexual dysfunction between the two groups.
Intraoral Neurinoma of the Lingual Nerve: An Uncommon Tumor in Floor of the Mouth
Authors: Kumar kuppusamy Santhosh , Ramkumar Subramaniyam , Narasimhan Malathi , Azariah Dhiravia Sargunam Emmanuel
Published: January 2014

Neurinoma or schwannoma is an uncommon benign tumor that arises primarily from the nerve sheath of Schwann cells. About 25% has been reported in head and neck region extracranially, but only 1% in the intraoral origin. Intraorally, the tongue is the most common site followed by the palate, floor of the mouth, lips and buccal mucosa. In review of literature, intraoral schwannoma of the lingual nerve origin has not been reported frequently. So, we present a case of intraoral neurinoma of the lingual nerve.
Trends of Syngas as a Fuel in Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Hagos Ftwi Yohaness , Aziz A. Rashid A. , Sulaiman Shaharin Anwar
Published: January 2014

Syngas from biomass and solid waste is a carbon-neutral fuel believed to be a promising fuel for future engines. It was widely used for spark-ignition engines in the WWII era before being replaced with gasoline. In this paper, the technological development, success, and challenges for application of syngas in power generating plants, the trends of engine technologies, and the potential of this fuel in the current engine technology are highlighted. Products of gasification vary with the variation of input parameters. Therefore, three different syngases selected from the two major gasification product categories are used as case studies. Their fuel properties are compared to those of CNG and hydrogen and the effects on the performance and emissions are studied. Syngases have very low stoichiometric air-fuel ratio; as a result they are not suitable for stoichiometric application. Besides, syngases have higher laminar flame speed as compared to CNG. Therefore, stratification under lean operation should be used in order to keep their performance and emissions of NOx comparable to CNG counterpart. However, late injection stratification leads to injection duration limitation leading to restriction of output power and torque. Therefore, proper optimization of major engine variables should be done in the current engine technology.
The Modified Atkins Diet in Refractory Epilepsy
Authors: Sharma Suvasini , Jain Puneet
Published: January 2014

The modified Atkins diet is a less restrictive variation of the ketogenic diet. This diet is started on an outpatient basis without a fast, allows unlimited protein and fat, and does not restrict calories or fluids. Recent studies have shown good efficacy and tolerability of this diet in refractory epilepsy. In this review, we discuss the use of the modified Atkins diet in refractory epilepsy.
On Quadruple Random Fixed Point Theorems in Partially Ordered Metric Spaces
Authors: Rashwan R. A. , Al-Baqeri D. M.
Published: January 2014

We prove some quadruple random coincidence and quadruple random fixed
point theorems under a set of conditions. We give examples to support our result. Our results are a generalization of the recent paper of Ćirić and Lakshmikantham (2009).
Transplantation of Encapsulated Pancreatic Islets as a Treatment for Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Qi Meirigeng
Published: January 2014

Encapsulation of pancreatic islets has been proposed and investigated for over three decades to improve islet transplantation outcomes and to eliminate the side effects of immunosuppressive medications. Of the numerous encapsulation systems developed in the past, microencapsulation have been studied most extensively so far. A wide variety of materials has been tested for microencapsulation in various animal models (including nonhuman primates or NHPs) and some materials were shown to induce immunoprotection to islet grafts without the need for chronic immunosuppression. Despite the initial success of microcapsules in NHP models, the combined use of islet transplantation (allograft) and microencapsulation has not yet been successful in clinical trials. This review consists of three sections: introduction to islet transplantation, transplantation of encapsulated pancreatic islets as a treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), and present challenges and future perspectives.
Regenerative Repair of Damaged Meniscus with Autologous Adipose Tissue-Derived Stem Cells
Authors: Pak Jaewoo , Lee Jung Hun , Lee Sang Hee
Published: January 2014

Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are defined as pluripotent cells found in numerous human tissues, including bone marrow and adipose tissue. Such MSCs, isolated from bone marrow and adipose tissue, have been shown to differentiate into bone and cartilage, along with other types of tissues. Therefore, MSCs represent a promising new therapy in regenerative medicine. The initial treatment of meniscus tear of the knee is managed conservatively with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and physical therapy. When such conservative treatment fails, an arthroscopic resection of the meniscus is necessary. However, the major drawback of the meniscectomy is an early onset of osteoarthritis. Therefore, an effective and noninvasive treatment for patients with continuous knee pain due to damaged meniscus has been sought. Here, we present a review, highlighting the possible regenerative mechanisms of damaged meniscus with MSCs (especially adipose tissue-derived stem cells (ASCs)), along with a case of successful repair of torn meniscus with significant reduction of knee pain by percutaneous injection of autologous ASCs into an adult human knee.
Can Tumor Necrosis Factor-αand Interleukin-6 Be Used as Prognostic Markers of Infection following Ureteroscopic Lithotripsy?
Authors: Bantis Athanasios , Tsakaldimis Georgios , Zissimopoulos Athanasios , Giannakopoulos Stilianos , Kalaitzis Christos , Pitiakoudis Michail , Polichronidis Alexandros , Touloupidis Stavros
Published: January 2014

Introduction. Ureteroscopic lithotripsy (URS) although highly effective for the treatment of ureteral stones is associated with certain complications, the more common of which are postoperative fever and infection. In the present study we aimed to evaluate the levels of serum cytokines in patients undergoing ureteroscopic lithotripsy and investigate any possible correlation between levels of cytokines and infectious complications after URS.Materials and Methods. Thirty patients (19 males, 11 females), with a mean age of 47 (range: 26–68) that underwent URS lithotripsy for ureteral stones, and 10 healthy volunteers serving as the control group were enrolled in this study. Serum samples for TNF-αand IL-6 were obtained before surgical intervention and after 1, 24, and 48 hours and 2 , 24, and 48 hours, respectively. The preoperative and postoperative levels were compared and correlated with the possible complications after URS.Results. Serum TNF-αlevels were statistically significant, increased 1 hour (P=0.0083) and 48 hours (P<0.001) after operation. IL-6 levels were found statistically significant, elevated after 2 and 24 hours from the URS (P<0.001). In 2 patients we observed postoperative fever (>38.5°C). These two patients had high preoperative values of TNF-αand IL-6 ( 30 and 50 pg/mL, resp.) and these values increased postoperatively.Conclusion. High preoperative levels of serum TNF-αand IL-6 may indicate a predisposition for postoperative inflammation and infection following URS lithotripsy.
A Class of Stochastic Nonlinear Delay System with Jumps
Authors: Bai Ling , Zhang Kai , Zhao Wenju
Published: January 2014

We consider stochastic suppression and stabilization for nonlinear delay differential system. The system is assumed to satisfy local Lipschitz condition and one-side polynomial growth condition. Since the system may explode in a finite time, we stochastically perturb this system by introducing independent Brownian noises and Lévy noise feedbacks. The contributions of this paper are as follows. (a) We show that Brownian noises or Lévy noise may suppress potential explosion of the solution for some appropriate parameters. (b) Using the exponential martingale inequality with jumps, we discuss the fact that the sample Lyapunov exponent is nonpositive. (c) Considering linear Lévy processes, by the strong law of large number for local martingale, sufficient conditions for a.s. exponentially stability are investigated in Theorem 13.
Noncommutative Phase Space Schrödinger Equation with Minimal Length
Authors: Hassanabadi H. , Molaee Z. , Zarrinkamar S.
Published: January 2014

We consider the Schrödinger equation under an external magnetic field in two-dimensional noncommutative phase space with an explicit minimal length relation. The eigenfunctions are reported in terms of the Jacobi polynomials, and the explicit form of energy eigenvalues is reported.
LncRNAs: New Players in Apoptosis Control
Authors: Rossi Marianna Nicoletta , Antonangeli Fabrizio
Published: January 2014

The discovery that the mammalian genome is largely transcribed and that almost half of the polyadenylated RNAs is composed of noncoding RNAs has attracted the attention of the scientific community. Growing amount of data suggests that long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) are a new class of regulators involved not only in physiological processes, such as imprinting and differentiation, but also in cancer progression and neurodegeneration. Apoptosis is a well regulated type of programmed cell death necessary for correct organ development and tissue homeostasis. Indeed, cancer cells often show an inhibition of the apoptotic pathways and it is now emerging that overexpression or downregulation of different lncRNAs in specific types of tumors sensitize cancer cells to apoptotic stimuli. In this review we summarize the latest studies on lncRNAs and apoptosis with major attention to those performed in cancer cells and in healthy cells upon differentiation. We discuss the new perspectives of using lncRNAs as targets of anticancer drugs. Finally, considering that lncRNA levels have been reported to have a correlation with specific cancer types, we argue the possibility of using lncRNAs as tumor biomarkers.
Urgent and Nonurgent Presentations to a Psychiatric Emergency Service in Nigeria: Pattern and Correlates
Authors: Adeosun Increase Ibukun , Adegbohun Abosede Adekeji , Jeje Oyetayo Oyewunmi , Oyekunle Olufemi Oyeleke , Omoniyi Modupeola Olugbemisola
Published: January 2014

Psychiatric emergencies are acute mental health disturbances that require immediate intervention. However, the emergency department is increasingly being utilised for nonurgent mental health problems, thereby compromising the quality of care available for patients with urgent problems. This study assessed the level and correlates of urgency of mental health problems among patients presenting to an emergency department in Nigeria. The Crisis Triage Rating Scale, Clinical Global Impression Scale and a supplementary questionnaire were administered to 700 attendees at the emergency department of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital Yaba, Lagos. Only 29.1% of the presentations constituted an “emergency” 10.9% were “urgent,” while 60% were “nonurgent.” The most common reason for nonurgent presentations was the need for medication refill. On regression analysis, level of urgency of presentations was independently associated with employment status, need for medication refill, substance abuse, suicidality, routine clinic attendance, and use of physical restraint before presentation. The majority of visits to the emergency department are for apparently “nonurgent problems.” However in a resource-poor setting, the emergency department may be the only safety net for the attendees. Our findings point to a need for education of service users and policy shifts in mental health care financing and organisation.
Ecosystem Services in Agricultural Landscapes: A Spatially Explicit Approach to Support Sustainable Soil Management
Authors: Forouzangohar Mohsen , Crossman Neville D. , MacEwan Richard J. , Wallace D. Dugal , Bennett Lauren T.
Published: January 2014

Soil degradation has been associated with a lack of adequate consideration of soil ecosystem services. We demonstrate a broadly applicable method for mapping changes in the supply of two priority soil ecosystem services to support decisions about sustainable land-use configurations. We used a landscape-scale study area of 302 km2in northern Victoria, south-eastern Australia, which has been cleared for intensive agriculture. Indicators representing priority soil services (soil carbon sequestration and soil water storage) were quantified and mapped under both a current and a future 25-year land-use scenario (the latter including a greater diversity of land uses and increased perennial crops and irrigation). We combined diverse methods, including soil analysis using mid-infrared spectroscopy, soil biophysical modelling, and geostatistical interpolation. Our analysis suggests that the future land-use scenario would increase the landscape-level supply of both services over 25 years. Soil organic carbon content and water storage to 30 cm depth were predicted to increase by about 11% and 22%, respectively. Our service maps revealed the locations of hotspots, as well as potential trade-offs in service supply under new land-use configurations. The study highlights the need to consider diverse land uses in sustainable management of soil services in changing agricultural landscapes.
Individualized Tailor-Made Dietetic Intervention Program at Schools Enhances Eating Behaviors and Dietary Habits in Obese Hispanic Children of Low Socioeconomic Status
Authors: Elizondo-Montemayor Leticia , Moreno-Sànchez Diana , Gutierrez Norma G. , Monsivais-Rodriguez Fabiola , Martinez Ubaldo , Lamadrid-Zertuche Ana C. , Hernandez-Torre Martin M.
Published: January 2014

Hispanic children and those from low-socioeconomic status are predisposed to unhealthy eating habits and obesity.Aim. to implement an individualized, face-to-face, parent supported, and school-partnership dietetic intervention to promote healthy eating habits and decrease body mass index. Prospective school year dietetic intervention of 101 obese, Hispanic, low-socioeconomic school-age children representative of Monterrey, Mexico, consisted of anthropometrics, dietetic assessment, energy-restriction tailor-made daily menus, and parental education every three weeks. Student’st-test was used for means comparison. A significant decrease was found in body mass index percentile(96.43±3.32to93.42±8.12/P=0.00)and energy intake/day of −755.7 kcal/day(P=0.00). Among other energy dense foods with significant decline in servings/day and servings/week were processed meats(3.13 ± 1.43to2.19 ± 1.04/P=0.00and5.60 ± 1.75to4.37 ± 2.10/P=0.00, resp.), saturated fat(1.47 ± 1.08to0.78 ± 0.79/P=0.00and2.19±2.18to1.1±1.36/P=0.00), sweetened beverages(2.79±1.99to1.42±1.21and6.21±1.72to3.89±2.80/P=0.00), and desserts and refined-grain bakery(1.99±1.54to1.32±1.59and2.85 ± 2.54to1.57 ± 2.20/P=0.00). There was a significant increase in servings/day and servings/week of water(2.98 ± 2.02to4.91 ± 2.37and6.62 ± 2.03to6.87 ± 0.91/P=0.00, resp.) and nutrient dense foods such as fruits(1.31 ± 0.89to1.66 ± 0.96and3.34 ± 2.24to4.28 ± 2.43/P=0.00)and fish and poultry(3.76 ± 2.15to4.54 ± 2.25/P=0.00). This intervention created healthy eating habits and decreased body mass index in a high risk population. Trial registration number:NCT01925976.
Fumigant Antifungal Activity ofCorymbia citriodoraandCymbopogon nardusEssential Oils and Citronellal against Three Fungal Species
Authors: Aguiar Raimundo Wagner de S. , Ootani Marcio A. , Ascencio Sérgio Donizeti , Ferreira Talita P. S. , Santos Manoel M. dos , Santos Gil R. dos
Published: January 2014

Corymbia citriodoraandCymbopogon nardusessential oils samples were analyzed by GC and GC-MS and their qualitative and quantitative compositions established. The main component of essential oils ofC. citriodoraandC. narduswas citronellal, at 61.78% and 36.6%, respectively. The essential oils and citronellal were tested for their fumigant antifungal activity againstPyricularia(Magnaporthe)grisea,Aspergillusspp., andColletotrichum musae. The minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranged from 100 to 200 ppm for the essential oils and 25 to 50 mg·mL−1for citronellal. The contact assay using the essential oils and citronellal showed growth inhibition of the three fungal species. However, a concentration of 1.47 mg·mL−1only reduced the inhibition ofAspergillusgrowth to 90% at 14 days of exposure. For the fumigant assay, 0.05, 0.11, and 0.23 mg·mL−1of essential oils and citronellal drastically affected growth ofP. grisea, Aspergillusspp., andC. musae. Harmful effects on the sporulation and germination of the three fungi were seen, and there was complete inhibition at 0.15 mg·mL−1with both oils and citronellal. This showed that the crude component of essential oils ofC. citriodoraandC. nardusmarkedly suppressed spore production, germination, and growth inhibition ofP. grisea,Aspergillusspp., andColletotrichum musae.
Study on Dielectric Function Models for Surface Plasmon Resonance Structure
Authors: Jahanshahi Peyman , Ghomeishi Mostafa , Adikan Faisal Rafiq Mahamd
Published: January 2014

The most common permittivity function models are compared and identifying the best model for further studies is desired. For this study, simulations using several different models and an analytical analysis on a practical surface Plasmon structure were done with an accuracy of∼94.4% with respect to experimental data. Finite element method, combined with dielectric properties extracted from the Brendel-Bormann function model, was utilized, the latter being chosen from a comparative study on four available models.
The Coarse Structure of the Representation Algebra of a Finite Monoid
Authors: Schaps Mary
Published: January 2014

Let M be a monoid, and let L be a commutative idempotent submonoid. We show that we can find a complete set of orthogonal idempotents L^0 of the monoid algebra A of M such that there is a basis of A adapted to this set of idempotents which is in one-to-one correspondence with elements of the monoid. The basis graph describing the Peirce decomposition with respect to L^0 gives a coarse structure of the algebra, of which any complete set of primitive idempotents gives a refinement, and we give some criterion for this coarse structure to actually be a fine structure, which means that the nonzero elements of the monoid are in one-to-one correspondence with the vertices and arrows of the basis graph with respect to a set of primitive idempotents, with this basis graph being a canonical object.
Analysis of Rainfall Infiltration Law in Unsaturated Soil Slope
Authors: Zhang Gui-rong , Qian Ya-jun , Wang Zhang-chun , Zhao Bo
Published: January 2014

In the study of unsaturated soil slope stability under rainfall infiltration, it is worth continuing to explore how much rainfall infiltrates into the slope in a rain process, and the amount of rainfall infiltrating into slope is the important factor influencing the stability. Therefore, rainfall infiltration capacity is an important issue of unsaturated seepage analysis for slope. On the basis of previous studies, rainfall infiltration law of unsaturated soil slope is analyzed. Considering the characteristics of slope and rainfall, the key factors affecting rainfall infiltration of slope, including hydraulic properties, water storage capacityθs−θr, soil types, rainfall intensities, and antecedent and subsequent infiltration rates on unsaturated soil slope, are discussed by using theory analysis and numerical simulation technology. Based on critical factors changing, this paper presents three calculation models of rainfall infiltrability for unsaturated slope, including (1) infiltration model considering rainfall intensity; (2) effective rainfall model considering antecedent rainfall; (3) infiltration model considering comprehensive factors. Based on the technology of system response, the relationship of rainfall and infiltration is described, and the prototype of regression model of rainfall infiltration is given, in order to determine the amount of rain penetration during a rain process.
Optimization (Central Composite Design) and Validation of HPLC Method for Investigation of Emtricitabine Loaded Poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) Nanoparticles:In VitroDrug Release andIn VivoPharmacokinetic Studies
Authors: Singh Gurinder , Pai Roopa S.
Published: January 2014

The objective of the current study is to develop nanoparticles (NPs) drug delivery system of emtricitabine solely using poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) and evaluate itsin vitroandin vivorelease performance by systematically optimized HPLC method using Formulation by Design (FbD). NPs were evaluated forin vitrorelease andin vivoabsorption study. The desired chromatographic separation was achieved on a Phenomenex C18(250 mm × 4.6 mm I.D., 5 μm) column, under isocratic conditions using UV detection at 280 nm. The optimized mobile phase consisted of a mixture of 40 mM phosphate dihydrogen phosphate buffer (pH 6.8), methanol, and 2% acetonitrile in a ratio of (83 : 15 : 2, v/v/v) at a flow rate of 1 mL/min. The linear regression analysis for the calibration curves showed a good linear correlation over the concentration range 0.040–2.0 μg/mL, with retention time of 4.39 min. An average encapsulation efficiency of 74.34% was obtained for NPs.In vitrostudies showed zero-order release and about 95% drug being released within 15 days in PBS (pH 7.4). In conclusion, the proposed optimized method was successfully applied for the determination ofin vitroandin vivorelease studies of emtricitabine NPs.
Representative Elementary Length to Measure Soil Mass Attenuation Coefficient
Authors: Borges J. A. R. , Pires L. F. , Costa J. C.
Published: January 2014

With increasing demand for better yield in agricultural areas, soil physical property representative measurements are more and more essential. Nuclear techniques such as computerized tomography (CT) and gamma-ray attenuation (GAT) have been widely employed with this purpose. The soil mass attenuation coefficient (μs) is an important parameter for CT and GAT analysis. When experimentally determined (μes), the use of suitable sized samples enable to evaluate it precisely, as well as to reduce measurement time and costs. This study investigated the representative elementary length (REL) of sandy and clayey soils forμesmeasurements. Two radioactive sources were employed (241Am and137Cs), three collimators (2–4 mm diameters), and 14 thickness (x) samples (2–15 cm). Results indicated ideal thickness intervals of 12–15 and 2–4 cm for the sources137Cs and241Am, respectively. The application of such results in representative elementary area (REA) evaluations in clayey soil clods via CT indicated thatμesaverage values obtained forx > 4 cm and source241Am might induce to the use of samples which are not large enough for soil bulk density evaluations (ρs). As a consequence,ρsmight be under- or overestimated, generating inaccurate conclusions about the physical quality of the soil under study.
Therapy of Chronic Myeloid Leukemia: Twilight of the Imatinib Era?
Authors: Trela Ewelina , Glowacki Sylwester , Błasiak Janusz
Published: January 2014

Chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) results from the clonal expansion of pluripotent hematopoietic stem cells containing the activeBCR/ABLfusion gene produced by a reciprocal translocation of theABL1gene to theBCRgene. The BCR/ABL protein displays a constitutive tyrosine kinase activity and confers on leukemic cells growth and proliferation advantage and resistance to apoptosis. Introduction of imatinib (IM) and other tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) has radically improved the outcome of patients with CML and some other diseases withBCR/ABLexpression. However, a fraction of CML patients presents with resistance to this drug. Regardless of clinical profits of IM, there are several drawbacks associated with its use, including lack of eradication of the malignant clone and increasing relapse rate resulting from long-term therapy, resistance, and intolerance. Second and third generations of TKIs have been developed to break IM resistance. Clinical studies revealed that the introduction of second-generation TKIs has improved the overall survival of CML patients; however, some with specific mutations such as T315I remain resistant. Second-generation TKIs may completely replace imatinib in perspective CML therapy, and addition of third-generation inhibitors may overcome resistance induced by every form of point mutations.
Slow Diffusion Underlies Alternation of Fast and Slow Growth Periods of Microtubule Assembly
Authors: Yang Ming
Published: January 2014

In vitromicrotubule assembly exhibits a rhythmic phenomenon, that is, fast growth periods alternating with slow growth periods. Mechanism underlying this phenomenon is unknown. Here a simple diffusion mechanism coupled with small diffusion coefficients is proposed to underlie this phenomenon. Calculations based on previously published results demonstrate that such a mechanism can explain the differences in the average duration of the interval encompassing a fast growth period and a slow growth period inin vitromicrotubule assembly experiments in different conditions. Because no parameter unique to the microtubule assembly process is involved in the analysis, the proposed mechanism is expected to be generally applicable to heterogeneous chemical reactions. Also because biological systems are characterized by heterogeneous chemical reactions, the diffusion-based rhythmic characteristic of heterogeneous reactions is postulated to be a fundamental element in generating rhythmic behaviors in biological systems.
Effect of Na Content on the Physical Properties ofBa0.5Sr0.5TiO3Powders
Authors: Tubchareon Tassanee , Soisuwan Soipatta , Ratanathammaphan Somchai , Praserthdam Piyasan
Published: January 2014

The different Na contents (0 ≤ Na ≤ 0.35, based on mole of NaOH) of doped Ba0.5Sr0.5TiO3(BST) powders synthesized via sol-gel process were studied. The substitution of Na+ions into a partial A-site of BST powders provided the reduction in vacancy defects as confirmed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) and UV-visible spectroscopy. Photoluminescence (PL) spectra appeared in violet, blue, and green emissions. The phase structure, oxygen deficiency, and titanium deficiency of BST powders were further investigated as a function of Na content. X-ray diffraction (XRD) result was found that low Na content (0 ≤ Na ≤ 0.15) exhibited the tetragonal structure, while it was transformed to the cubic phase when high Na content. Moreover, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) result revealed that the partial oxidation of Ti3+ions to Ti4+ions was observed at Na content lower than 0.05 mole, while more addition of Na content resulted in the increasing of the oxygen and the titanium deficiency. Furthermore, the result indicated the oxygen deficiency significantly formed at the A-site of Sr atoms more than that of Ba atoms.
Effects of Methanol Extract of Breadfruit (Artocarpus altilis) on Atherogenic Indices and Redox Status of Cellular System of Hypercholesterolemic Male Rats
Authors: Adaramoye Oluwatosin Adekunle , Akanni Olubukola Oyebimpe
Published: January 2014

We investigated the effects of methanol extract ofArtocarpus altilis(AA) on atherogenic indices and redox status of cellular system of rats fed with dietary cholesterol while Questran (QUE) served as standard. Biochemical indices such as total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), low- and high-density lipoproteins-cholesterol (LDL-C and HDL-C), aspartate and alanine aminotransferases (AST and ALT), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), reduced glutathione, glutathione-s-transferase, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were assessed. Hypercholesterolemic (HC) rats had significantly increased relative weight of liver and heart. Dietary cholesterol caused a significant increase (P<0.05) in the levels of serum, hepatic, and cardiac TC by 110%, 70%, and 85%, LDL-C by 79%, 82%, and 176%, and TG by 68%, 96%, and 62%, respectively. Treatment with AA significantly reduced the relative weight of the organs and lipid parameters. There were beneficial increases in serum and cardiac HDL-C levels in HC rats treated with AA. In HC rats, serum LDH, ALT, and AST activities and levels of LPO were increased, whereas hepatic and cardiac SOD, CAT, and GPx were reduced. All biochemical and histological alterations were ameliorated upon treatment with AA. Extract of AA had protective effects against dietary cholesterol-induced hypercholesterolemia.
Impact of Cyclosporine Levels on the Development of Acute Graft versus Host Disease after Reduced Intensity Conditioning Allogeneic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: García Cadenas Irene , Valcarcel David , Martino Rodrigo , Piñana J. L. , Barba Pere , Novelli Silvana , Esquirol Albert , Garrido Ana , Saavedra Silvana , Granell Miquel , Moreno Carol , Briones Javier , Brunet Salut , Sierra Jorge
Published: January 2014

We analyze the impact of cyclosporine (CsA) levels in the development of acute graft-versus-host disease (aGVHD) after reduced intensity conditioning allogeneic hematopoietic transplantation (allo-RIC). We retrospectively evaluated 156 consecutive patients who underwent HLA-identical sibling allo-RIC at our institution. CsA median blood levels in the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th weeks after allo-RIC were 134 (range: 10–444), 219 (54–656), 253 (53–910) and 224 (30–699) ng/mL; 60%, 16%, 11% and 17% of the patients had median CsA blood levels below 150 ng/mL during these weeks. 53 patients developed grade 2–4 aGVHD for a cumulative incidence of 45% (95% CI 34–50%) at a median of 42 days. Low CsA levels on the 3rd week and sex-mismatch were associated with the development of GVHD. Risk factors for 1-year NRM and OS were advanced disease status (HR: 2.2,P=0.02) and development of grade 2–4 aGVHD (HR: 2.5,P<0.01), while there was a trend for higher NRM in patients with a low median CsA concentration on the 3rd week (P=0.06). These results emphasize the relevance of sustaining adequate levels of blood CsA by close monitoring and dose adjustments, particularly when engraftment becomes evident. CsA adequate management will impact on long-term outcomes in the allo-RIC setting.
Behavior of Nonplastic Silty Soils under Cyclic Loading
Authors: Ural Nazile , Gunduz Zeki
Published: January 2014

The engineering behavior of nonplastic silts is more difficult to characterize than is the behavior of clay or sand. Especially, behavior of silty soils is important in view of the seismicity of several regions of alluvial deposits in the world, such as the United States, China, and Turkey. In several hazards substantial ground deformation, reduced bearing capacity, and liquefaction of silty soils have been attributed to excess pore pressure generation during dynamic loading. In this paper, an experimental study of the pore water pressure generation of silty soils was conducted by cyclic triaxial tests on samples of reconstituted soils by the slurry deposition method. In all tests silty samples which have different clay percentages were studied under different cyclic stress ratios. The results have showed that in soils having clay content equal to and less than 10%, the excess pore pressure ratio buildup was quicker with an increase in different cyclic stress ratios. When fine and clay content increases, excess pore water pressure decreases constant cyclic stress ratio in nonplastic silty soils. In addition, the applicability of the used criteria for the assessment of liquefaction susceptibility of fine grained soils is examined using laboratory test results.
Robust Redundant Input Reliable Tracking Control for Omnidirectional Rehabilitative Training Walker
Authors: Sun Ping , Wang Shuoyu , Karimi Hamid Reza
Published: January 2014

The problem of robust reliable tracking control on the omnidirectional rehabilitative training walker is examined. The new nonlinear redundant input method is proposed when one wheel actuator fault occurs. The aim of the study is to design an asymptotically stable controller that can guarantee the safety of the user and ensure tracking on a training path planned by a physical therapist. The redundant degrees of freedom safety control and the asymptotically zero state detectable concept of the walker are presented, the model of redundant degree is constructed, and the property of center of gravity constant shift is obtained. A controller that can satisfy asymptotic stability is obtained using a common Lyapunov function for admissible uncertainties resulting from an actuator fault. Simulation results confirm the effectiveness of the proposed method and verify that the walker can provide safe sequential motion when one wheel actuator is at fault.
Monitoring Fetal Heart Rate during Pregnancy: Contributions from Advanced Signal Processing and Wearable Technology
Authors: Signorini Maria G. , Fanelli Andrea , Magenes Giovanni
Published: January 2014

Monitoring procedures are the basis to evaluate the clinical state of patients and to assess changes in their conditions, thus providing necessary interventions in time. Both these two objectives can be achieved by integrating technological development with methodological tools, thus allowing accurate classification and extraction of useful diagnostic information. The paper is focused on monitoring procedures applied to fetal heart rate variability (FHRV) signals, collected during pregnancy, in order to assess fetal well-being. The use of linear time and frequency techniques as well as the computation of non linear indices can contribute to enhancing the diagnostic power and reliability of fetal monitoring. The paper shows how advanced signal processing approaches can contribute to developing new diagnostic and classification indices. Their usefulness is evaluated by comparing two selected populations: normal fetuses and intra uterine growth restricted (IUGR) fetuses. Results show that the computation of different indices on FHRV signals, either linear and nonlinear, gives helpful indications to describe pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the cardiovascular and neural system controlling the fetal heart. As a further contribution, the paper briefly describes how the introduction of wearable systems for fetal ECG recording could provide new technological solutions improving the quality and usability of prenatal monitoring.
Multiobjective Optimization of Allocated Exchange Portfolio: Model and Solution—A Case Study in Iran
Authors: Ekhtiari Mostafa
Published: January 2014

This paper presents a triobjective model for optimization of allocated exchange portfolio. The objectives of this model are minimizing risk and investment initial cost (by adopting two synchronic policies of buying and selling assets) and maximizing return, to optimize allocated portfolios (APs). In an AP, an investor by considering previous investment experiences and market conditions selects the within portfolio assets. Then, considering proposed model, the assets proportion of AP is optimized for a limited time horizon. In optimizing a multiobjective problem of an AP, risk and return objectives are measured on the basis of standard deviation of assets dairy return and dairy return mean within AP assets, respectively. We present a set of interobjectives trade-offs along with an analysis of Iran Melli bank investment in an exchange AP, using Weighted Global Criterion (WGC) method with assumption p=1, 2, and ∞ to optimize the proposed model. Results of WGC model (in all p=1, 2 and ∞) represent that US dollar exchange in comparison with other exchanges, was rather the fewest exchange proportion in Iran Melli bank exchange AP which this is consistent with Iran exchange investment policy of more concentration on other exchanges.
Characterization of Genes for Beef Marbling Based on Applying Gene Coexpression Network
Authors: Lim Dajeong , Kim Nam-Kuk , Lee Seung-Hwan , Park Hye-Sun , Cho Yong-Min , Chai Han-Ha , Kim Heebal
Published: January 2014

Marbling is an important trait in characterization beef quality and a major factor for determining the price of beef in the Korean beef market. In particular, marbling is a complex trait and needs a system-level approach for identifying candidate genes related to the trait. To find the candidate gene associated with marbling, we used a weighted gene coexpression network analysis from the expression value of bovine genes. Hub genes were identified; they were topologically centered with large degree and BC values in the global network. We performed gene expression analysis to detect candidate genes inM. longissimuswith divergent marbling phenotype (marbling scores 2 to 7) using qRT-PCR. The results demonstrate that transmembrane protein 60 (TMEM60) and dihydropyrimidine dehydrogenase (DPYD) are associated with increasing marbling fat. We suggest that the network-based approach in livestock may be an important method for analyzing the complex effects of candidate genes associated with complex traits like marbling or tenderness.