bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal two-layer directive microphone array with application in near-field acoustical holography
Authors: Bai Mingsian R. , Wang Chunkai , Juan Shen-Wei
Published: August 2012

Conventional near-field acoustical holography (NAH) is generally based on the free-field assumption, which can cause errors when interfering sources are present in practical environments. To cope with this problem, previous research suggested a combined pressure-velocity approach for NAH that provides certain advantages to rejection of interferences. This paper revisits this idea in a broader context of optimal array design and examines the feasibility of using unidirectional microphones in each channel of the array such that the robustness of inverse reconstruction is enhanced against interfering sources. As indicated in the simulation, the numerical noise in finite difference estimation of particle velocity can nullify the advantage of the well-conditioned velocity-based reconstruction. In the proposed approach, the characteristics of each array channel consisting of two microphones are tailored by taking into account not only the directivity, but also the robustness against self-noise. An objective function based on directivity index and white noise gain is exploited in a linear quadratic optimization of a two-element end-fire array. The proposed optimal array is validated in conjunction with the equivalent source model (ESM) -based NAH through numerical simulations, with an interfering source positioned behind the array. The results have shown the directive optimal array has yielded improved quality of images in comparison with conventional approaches in the presence of an interfering source and sensor noise.
Instructive Nanofiber Scaffolds with VEGF Create a Microenvironment for Arteriogenesis and Cardiac Repair
Authors: Lin Yi-Dong , Luo Chwan-Yau , Hu Yu-Ning , Yeh Ming-Long , Hsueh Ying-Chang , Chang Min-Yao , Tsai Da-Ching , Wang Jieh-Neng , Tang Ming-Jer , Wei Erika I. H. , Springer Matthew L. , Hsieh Patrick C. H.
Published: August 2012

An intramyocardial microenvironment was created using nanofibers and VEGF for endogenous cardiac repair after infarction.
A Hendra Virus G Glycoprotein Subunit Vaccine Protects African Green Monkeys from Nipah Virus Challenge
Authors: Bossart Katharine N. , Rockx Barry , Feldmann Friederike , Brining Doug , Scott Dana , LaCasse Rachel , Geisbert Joan B. , Feng Yan-Ru , Chan Yee-Peng , Hickey Andrew C. , Broder Christopher C. , Feldmann Heinz , Geisbert Thomas W.
Published: August 2012

The Hendra virus attachment G glycoprotein fully protects nonhuman primates from lethal Nipah virus challenge.
Treating the Leading Killer
Authors: Christman Karen L.
Published: August 2012

Injection of a growth factor in a self-assembling nanofiber scaffold has the potential to create a suitable microenvironment and recruit endogenous cells for cardiac repair (Lin
et al
., this issue).
Selected Microbes Light the Flame
Authors: Skarke Carsten
Published: August 2012

Nutrients, antimicrobial peptides, and symbiotic microbes integrate to govern intestinal inflammation.
Asthmatic Granulomatosis: A New Disease?
Authors: Zeki Amir A.
Published: August 2012

Severe asthma can manifest with both small airway inflammation and granulomatosis, representing a possibly new subset of the disease.
Respiratory Syncytial Virus Fusion Protein-Induced Toll-Like Receptor 4 (TLR4) Signaling Is Inhibited by the TLR4 Antagonists Rhodobacter sphaeroides Lipopolysaccharide and Eritoran (E5564) and Requires Direct Interaction with MD-2
Authors: Rallabhandi Prasad , Phillips Rachel L. , Boukhvalova Marina S. , Pletneva Lioubov M. , Shirey Kari Ann , Gioannini Theresa L. , Weiss Jerrold P. , Chow Jesse C. , Hawkins Lynn D. , Vogel Stefanie N. , Blanco Jorge C. G.
Published: August 2012

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a leading cause of infant mortality worldwide. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), a signaling receptor for structurally diverse microbe-associated molecular patterns, is activated by the RSV fusion (F) protein and by bacterial lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in a CD14-dependent manner. TLR4 signaling by LPS also requires the presence of an additional protein, MD-2. Thus, it is possible that F protein-mediated TLR4 activation relies on MD-2 as well, although this hypothesis has not been formally tested. LPS-free RSV F protein was found to activate NF-κB in HEK293T transfectants that express wild-type (WT) TLR4 and CD14, but only when MD-2 was coexpressed. These findings were confirmed by measuring F-protein-induced interleukin 1β (IL-1β) mRNA in WT versus MD-2−/−macrophages, where MD-2−/−macrophages failed to show IL-1β expression upon F-protein treatment, in contrast to the WT. BothRhodobacter sphaeroidesLPS and synthetic E5564 (eritoran), LPS antagonists that inhibit TLR4 signaling by binding a hydrophobic pocket in MD-2, significantly reduced RSV F-protein-mediated TLR4 activity in HEK293T-TLR4–CD14–MD-2 transfectants in a dose-dependent manner, while TLR4-independent NF-κB activation by tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) was unaffected.In vitrocoimmunoprecipitation studies confirmed a physical interaction between native RSV F protein and MD-2. Further, we demonstrated that the N-terminal domain of the F1 segment of RSV F protein interacts with MD-2. These data provide new insights into the importance of MD-2 in RSV F-protein-mediated TLR4 activation. Thus, targeting the interaction between MD-2 and RSV F protein may potentially lead to novel therapeutic approaches to help control RSV-induced inflammation and pathology.

IMPORTANCEThis study shows for the first time that the fusion (F) protein of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a major cause of bronchiolitis and death, particularly in infants and young children, physically interacts with the Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) coreceptor, MD-2, through its N-terminal domain. We show that F protein-induced TLR4 activation can be blocked by lipid A analog antagonists. This observation provides a strong experimental rationale for testing such antagonists in animal models of RSV infection for potential use in people.
Statistical modelling for recurrent events: an application to sports injuries
Authors: Ullah Shahid , Gabbett Tim J , Finch Caroline F
Published: August 2012

Background

Injuries are often recurrent, with subsequent injuries influenced by previous occurrences and hence correlation between events needs to be taken into account when analysing such data.

Objective

This paper compares five different survival models (Cox proportional hazards (CoxPH) model and the following generalisations to recurrent event data: Andersen-Gill (A-G), frailty, Wei-Lin-Weissfeld total time (WLW-TT) marginal, Prentice-Williams-Peterson gap time (PWP-GT) conditional models) for the analysis of recurrent injury data.

Methods

Empirical evaluation and comparison of different models were performed using model selection criteria and goodness-of-fit statistics. Simulation studies assessed the size and power of each model fit.

Results

The modelling approach is demonstrated through direct application to Australian National Rugby League recurrent injury data collected over the 2008 playing season. Of the 35 players analysed, 14 (40%) players had more than 1 injury and 47 contact injuries were sustained over 29 matches. The CoxPH model provided the poorest fit to the recurrent sports injury data. The fit was improved with the A-G and frailty models, compared to WLW-TT and PWP-GT models.

Conclusions

Despite little difference in model fit between the A-G and frailty models, in the interest of fewer statistical assumptions it is recommended that, where relevant, future studies involving modelling of recurrent sports injury data use the frailty model in preference to the CoxPH model or its other generalisations. The paper provides a rationale for future statistical modelling approaches for recurrent sports injury.
Perceived key injury risk factors in World Cup alpine ski racing—an explorative qualitative study with expert stakeholders
Authors: Spörri Jörg , Kröll Josef , Amesberger Günter , Blake Ollie M , Müller Erich
Published: August 2012

Background

There is limited knowledge about key injury risk factors in alpine ski racing, particularly for World Cup (WC) athletes.

Objective

This study was undertaken to compile and explore perceived intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors for severe injuries in WC alpine ski racing.

Methods

Qualitative study. Interviews were conducted with 61 expert stakeholders of the WC ski racing community. Experts’ statements were collected, paraphrased and loaded into a database with inductively derived risk factor categories (Risk Factor Analysis). At the end of the interviews, experts were asked to name those risk factors they believed to have a high potential impact on injury risk and to rank them according to their priority of impact (Risk Factor Rating).

Results

In total, 32 perceived risk factors categories were derived from the interviews within the basic categories Athlete, Course, Equipment and Snow. Regarding their perceived impact on injury risk, the experts’ top five categories were: system ski, binding, plate and boot; changing snow conditions; physical aspects of the athletes; speed and course setting aspects and speed in general.

Conclusions

Severe injuries in WC alpine ski racing can have various causes. This study compiled a list of perceived intrinsic and extrinsic risk factors and explored those factors with the highest believed impact on injury risk. Hence, by using more detailed hypotheses derived from this explorative study, further studies should verify the plausibility of these factors as true risk factors for severe injuries in WC alpine ski racing.
Complications of Bioglue postsurgery for aortic dissections and aortic valve replacement
Authors: Luk Adriana , David Tirone E , Butany Jagdish
Published: August 2012

Aims

Bioglue is an adhesive used during cardiovascular surgery to improve hemostasis perioperatively and to strengthen and reinforce vascular anastomoses. It has also been used to ‘seal’ the false lumen in patients presenting with acute aortic dissections. Herein, we examine the complications of Bioglue, which may lead to redo sternotomy in selected patients.

Methods

A review of pathology records at our institution from 2002 to 2010 found 4 cases of excised aortic tissue and/or aortic valves with previous Bioglue® use at initial operation. Excised tissues and valves were examined, looking for the presence of Bioglue®, inflammatory cells (acute, chronic, macrophage and giant cells) and micro-organisms. Patient demographics were also reviewed and recorded.

Results

We identified four cases of Bioglue use found at redo surgery, after the formation of pseudoaneurysm (n=3) and aortic stenosis (n=1). Mean interval to redo surgery was 2.28 + 0.32 years (range 2-2.6 years). Pseudoaneurysm formation was thought to be caused by an inflammatory reaction to the Bioglue® itself in two cases, while one case found no such reaction. One patient with previous aortic valve replacement had large annular abscesses filled with necrotic debris surrounding the prosthesis and pannus found on the sewing cuff, comprised of Bioglue® itself.

Conclusions

The mechanisms leading to these complications include mechanical strain, inflammation and tissue necrosis. The judicious use of Bioglue® when clinically indicated, and close follow-up of these patients with serial imaging, remain an integral part of avoiding future complications.
Sensitivity and specificity of MRI for detecting facial nerve abnormalities in dogs with facial neuropathy
Authors: Smith P. M. , Gonçalves R. , McConnell J. F.
Published: August 2012

Idiopathic facial neuropathy in dogs is conventionally diagnosed by exclusion of structural and metabolic causes of a single cranial neuropathy. To investigate the reliability and validity of MRI for supporting a diagnosis of facial neuropathy in dogs, we examined MR images of the brainstem from 20 dogs with presumed idiopathic facial neuropathy, and 20 control dogs. Two different types of MRI sequence were compared: volumetric interpolated breath‐hold examination MRI (VIBE‐MRI), and conventional T1‐weighted MRI. Three independent observers, blinded to the case details, were presented with VIBE‐MR images in a random order, and were required to indicate the presence of hyperintensity of the facial nerve following intravenous contrast administration. The vestibulocochlear nerve was also assessed, and the whole process was repeated for conventional post‐contrast T1‐weighted images. Following contrast administration, the sensitivity of VIBE‐MRI for detecting facial nerve abnormalities ranged from 86 per cent to 96 per cent, and the specificity from 87 per cent to 92 per cent; conventional T1‐weighted images yielded a sensitivity of only 39 per cent – 65 per cent, and a specificity of 94 per cent – 96 per cent. MRI was not a sensitive detector of vestibulocochlear nerve abnormalities in 14 dogs with concurrent vestibular dysfunction. This study shows that VIBE‐MRI is a robust technique for confirming presumed idiopathic facial neuropathy in dogs, and suggests an inflammatory component to this condition in a high proportion of dogs.
CHAOTIC SYNCHRONIZATION OF FRACTIONAL-ORDER SPATIOTEMPORAL COUPLED LORENZ SYSTEM
Authors: WANG XING-YUAN , ZHANG HAO
Published: August 2012

By utilizing the fractional calculus techniques and spatiotemporal chaos theory, this paper brings Lorenz system to fractional-order spatiotemporal coupled differential equation for the first time, and proposes the fractional-order spatiotemporal coupled Lorenz system. Based on that, we study the problem of chaotic synchronization of fractional-order spatiotemporal coupled Lorenz systems, design the linear controller and nonlinear controller by utilizing the Lyapunov stability theory and prove the correctness in theory. The numerical simulation results demonstrate the validity of controllers in high-dimension fractional-order spatiotemporal coupled Lorenz system.
ELECTROWEAK UNIFICATION OF QUARKS AND LEPTONS IN A GAUGE GROUP SUC(3) × SU(4) × UX(1)
Authors: FAYYAZUDDIN
Published: August 2012

A model for electroweak unification of quarks and leptons, in a gauge group SUC(3) × SU(4) × UX(1) is constructed. The model requires, three generations of quarks and leptons which are replicas (mirror) of the standard quarks and leptons. The gauge group SU(4) × UX(1) is broken in such a way so as to reproduce standard model and to generate heavy masses for the vector bosons [Formula: see text], the leptoquarks and mirror fermions. It is shown lower limit on mass scale of mirror fermions is [Formula: see text], E- being the lightest mirror fermion coupled to Z boson. As the universe expands, the heavy matter is decoupled at an early stage of expansion and may be a source of dark matter. Leptoquarks in the model connect the standard model and mirror fermions. Baryon genesis in our universe implies antibaryon genesis in mirror universe.
ARROW RIBBON GRAPHS
Authors: BRADFORD ROBERT , BUTLER CLARK , CHMUTOV SERGEI
Published: August 2012

We introduce an additional arrow structure on ribbon graphs. We extend the dichromatic polynomial to ribbon graphs with this structure. This extended polynomial satisfies the contraction–deletion relations and behaves naturally with respect to the partial duality of ribbon graphs. From a virtual link, we construct an arrow ribbon graph whose extended dichromatic polynomial specializes to the arrow polynomial of the virtual link recently introduced by H. Dye and L. Kauffman. This result generalizes the classical Thistlethwaite theorem to the arrow polynomial of virtual links.
THE ALEXANDER AND JONES POLYNOMIALS THROUGH REPRESENTATIONS OF ROOK ALGEBRAS
Authors: BIGELOW STEPHEN , RAMOS ERIC , YI REN
Published: August 2012

In the 1920's Artin defined the braid group, Bn, in an attempt to understand knots in a more algebraic setting. A braid is a certain arrangement of strings in three-dimensional space. It is a celebrated theorem of Alexander that every knot is obtainable from a braid by identifying the endpoints of each string. Because of this correspondence, the Jones and Alexander polynomials, two of the most important knot invariants, can be described completely using the braid group. There has been a recent growth of interest in other diagrammatic algebras, whose elements have a similar topological flavor to the braid group. These have wide ranging applications in areas including representation theory and quantum computation. We consider representations of the braid group when passed through another diagrammatic algebra, the planar rook algebra. By studying traces of these matrices, we recover both the Jones and Alexander polynomials.
Shanghai Automotive and Ssangyong Motor – A Tale of Two Dragons (B)
Authors: Xu Leiping , White Steven
Published: August 2012

This second case of the 3-case series describes events from the time the deal was signed in October 2004 through October 2006. The new owners faced a range of major challenges to achieving the strategic objectives driving the acquisition. These included significant resistance and distrust from the Ssangyong union, local media, community and government, as well as the negative reaction to SAIC's responses to those challenges. The case serves as a basis for assessing integration management, as well as rich material for discussing stakeholder management in a cross-border acquisition. It also highlights the particular challenges facing a newly-internationalizing firm like SAIC which has no experience in managing such issues abroad.
Domino's Pizza India Ltd.: Driving Business Growth through Consumer Engagement
Authors: Jham Vimi , Tandon Shobhit
Published: August 2012

The case describes how the Domino's Pizza India Ltd. designed a customer relationship program with direct marketing as a tool and rolled it out nationally. Today with 321 stores, Domino's is the market leader in the organized pizza category and is the largest international chain in the country. The case discusses strategies adopted by Domino's, keeping in mind the emerging competition, rising income levels and change in customer preference to gain new customers and increase repeat purchase. It highlights the need to design a unique customer relationship management program which will try to sell a single customer a basket of products and offers that he may need at different consumption occasions over as long a period of time as possible. The focus of the case is on the use of direct marketing in designing a new CRM program. The case highlights the advantages and disadvantages along with the challenges and problems involved in designing the program.
ESAF: Making Marketing Work for the Social Sector
Authors: Mukherjee Jaydeep , Bhullar Neelu
Published: August 2012

The case is about ESAF, a non-government organization (NGO) based in India, which was helping the underprivileged sections of the society to earn a livelihood by helping them produce and market hand-crafted articles and services. One of the weak links had been the access to the markets which was controlled by distribution channel intermediaries who appropriated larger than their fair share of profits. ESAF management proactively considered the ways and means to make the beneficiaries become independent and self-sustaining. They commenced an initiative to bypass the existing trade channels to reach consumers directly by opening up retail outlets. The challenges were manifold and one of the main decisions taken by them was to sell bought out items to acquire the necessary product assortment. The operation seemed to make some profits and the management was evaluating what would be its best course of action to take the products to end consumers which benefited the artisans the most in a sustainable manner. The case provides a backdrop to such decision making situations and its dilemmas.
Ferns N Petals: Transforming an Unorganized Business into an Organized One
Authors: Gupta Rakesh , Pandit Ajay
Published: August 2012

The economic reforms in India have not only changed consumption patterns but also the mindsets of people. This changing economic and social landscape has unleashed a plethora of opportunities and brought into existence companies in various sectors which were unheard of earlier. This case is about Ferns N Petals (FNP), which has emerged as the largest floral retail chain in India. When Vikas, founder of Ferns N Petals landed in Delhi in 1994 with US$110 (INRs 5,000) in his pocket, no one would have imagined that he would go on to establish the country's only branded floral retail chain. Whenever Vikas traveled to Delhi to meet his sweetheart Meeta, he found that the capital had no good florist. For someone who came from a family that dealt in flowers, this was the turning point which led to the launch of Ferns N Petal. The case moves on to discuss in detail the challenges faced by Vikas in setting up a nationwide floral retail chain and how he maximized the opportunity by adding new segments related to flowers and the move to get into the online flower selling mode when the internet was making inroads in India. The case winds up by highlighting his decision to enter into the food segment which is fraught with risks.

The FNP case has been developed to highlight the existence of many entrepreneurial opportunities emerging in the changing socio-economic scenario in India. This case clearly illustrates that many unorganized sectors offer scope for professionalization and how an entrepreneur can tap these opportunities. FNP is a good example of how these opportunities can be tapped, thanks to the ambition, courage and risk-taking capabilities of Vikas Gutgutia. The case traces the journey of a start-up and the difficulties it faced at various stages and how these challenges are remarkably similar in any start-up. It highlights the need for modifying the existing business models and developing new ones to tap the emerging opportunities in an unorganized sector. The case goes on to highlight how the success of one venture many times can result in the belief that one can transform every opportunity in the unorganized sector which may lead to overstretching oneself.
Taiwan DRAM Industry in 2009
Authors: Chen Chien Nan , Tien Chengli
Published: August 2012

Under the impact of the 2008 financial tsunami, the Ministry of Economic Affairs, R.O.C., made a proposal to the Execution Yuan in March 2009 regarding the renovation plan of Taiwan DRAM industry. This plan was hopefully to establish Taiwan Memory Company (TMC) with private investors to renovate Taiwan DRAM industry. However, under media pressure, in July 2009, the original plan was altered to invite any DRAM company that wished to propose a renovation plan and needed government funding to file an application within three months. In August 2009, Taiwan Innovation Memory Company (TIMC) was officially established. This case aims to discuss the difficulties of Taiwan DRAM industry and the feasibility of the renovation plan through the establishment of TMC by its historical background and potential impacts. The key role of this case is Mr John Hsuan, CEO of TMC, and the decision-making focus is the Renovation Plan of Taiwan DRAM Industry under the charge of the Ministry of Economic Affairs. This covers the fourth quarter of 2008 to the first quarter of 2010.

The purpose of the DRAM industry renovation plan was to sustain the technology and the industry, not any individual company. Therefore, the plan did not solve the financial problems of any DRAM companies. Can the DRAM industry renovation plan successfully turn Taiwan's DRAM industry around in a financial crisis and upgrade the competitive advantage of the nation?
THE IMPACT OF GOVERNANCE MECHANISMS ON ESCALATION OF COMMITMENT
Authors: CONTRACTOR SUNIL H. , KUMAR PIYUSH , LEIGH THOMAS W.
Published: August 2012

There are conflicting opinions on whether the existing US legal and economic environment for pharmaceutical research is conducive for the repurposing of patent-protected drugs. This article therefore addresses the following innovation policy questions: Does US patent law and regulatory policy assign sufficient value to new use patents in the pharmaceutical industry? If present law and regulatory policy does assign sufficient value, what evidence is there that the pharmaceutical industry is actively involved in technology strategies to repurpose existing pharmaceuticals? Based on an evaluation of the extant legal literature, US pharmaceutical firms are generally successful at legally enforcing their new use patents against infringement. Furthermore, the truncating of the time and resources dedicated to the drug discovery, development, and regulatory review process provide sufficient economic "value" on both the front end of the pharmaceutical regulatory approval process, and the back end of the drug patent term for encouraging pharmaceutical industry repurposing.
MODELING HETEROSTRUCTURES WITH SCHRÖDINGER–POISSON–NAVIER ITERATIVE SCHEMES, EFFECT OF CARRIER CHARGE, AND INFLUENCE OF ELECTROMECHANICAL COUPLING
Authors: MAHAPATRA D. ROY , WILLATZEN M. , MELNIK R. V. N. , LASSEN B.
Published: August 2012

This paper presents a detailed investigation of the effects of piezoelectricity, spontaneous polarization and charge density on the electronic states and the quasi-Fermi level energy in wurtzite-type semiconductor heterojunctions. This has required a full solution to the coupled Schrödinger–Poisson–Navier model, as a generalization of earlier work on the Schrödinger–Poisson problem. Finite-element-based simulations have been performed on a AlN/GaN quantum well by using both one-step calculation as well as the self-consistent iterative scheme. Results have been provided for field distributions corresponding to cases with zero-displacement boundary conditions and also stress-free boundary conditions. It has been further demonstrated by using four case study examples that a complete self-consistent coupling of electromechanical fields is essential to accurately capture the electromechanical fields and electronic wavefunctions. We have demonstrated that electronic energies can change up to approximately 0.5 eV when comparing partial and complete coupling of electromechanical fields. Similarly, wavefunctions are significantly altered when following a self-consistent procedure as opposed to the partial-coupling case usually considered in literature. Hence, a complete self-consistent procedure is necessary when addressing problems requiring more accurate results on optoelectronic properties of low-dimensional nanostructures compared to those obtainable with conventional methodologies.
MICROWAVE IRRADIATION ASSISTED GROWTH OF Cu, Ni, Co METALS AND/OR OXIDES NANOCLUSTERS AND THEIR CATALYTIC PERFORMANCE
Authors: FOUAD O. A. , EL-SHALL M. S.
Published: August 2012

Copper, nickel and cobalt metals and oxides needle-like shape nanoclusters have been synthesized successfully by chemical reduction in solution without using a surfactant. XRD analyses showed that copper and nickel metals could be synthesized in a short time period by a microwave irradiation (MWI) — assisted step wise reduction of metal ions in basic solution using hydrazine as a reducing agent whereas cobalt was mainly precipitated in the form of either hydroxide or oxide. TEM images showed that the size of needle-like shape nanoclusters varying from about 5 nm to few hundred nanometers length. On the other hand, copper and cobalt showed high catalytic activity toward CO oxidation than that of nickel. The mechanism of catalytic oxidation reactions over unsupported metals and oxides are also discussed.
GASTROINTESTINAL ABNORMALITIES IDENTIFIED BY FLUORESCENCE ENDOMICROSCOPY
Authors: BAO HONGCHUN , BOUSSIOUTAS ALEX , ALEIXANDRIA MCGEAREY , BUSUTTIL RITA , GU MIN
Published: August 2012

Real-time in vivo microscopic imaging has become a reality with the advent of confocal and nonlinear endomicroscopy. These devices are best utilized in conjunction with standard white light endoscopy. We evaluated the use of fluorescence endomicroscopy in detecting microscopic abnormalities in colonic tissues. Mice of C57bl/6 strain had intraperitoneal injection with azoxymethane once every week for five weeks and littermates, not exposed to azoxymethane served as controls. After 14 weeks, intestines were imaged by fluorescence endomicroscopy. The images show obvious cellular structural differences between those two groups of mice. The difference in endomicroscopy imaging can be used for identifying tissues suspicious for neoplasia or other changes, leading to early diagnosis of gastrointestinal track of cancer.
Splenic Hematoma Mimicking Angiosarcoma: A Case Report
Authors: Akkucuk Seckin , Aydogan Akin , Gokce Hasan , Davran Ramazan , Karcioglu Murat
Published: August 2012

Introduction. Splenic hematomas usually occur after blunt abdominal trauma. Most of the subcapsular hematomas will be resolved and reabsorbed spontaneously. However in rare cases, some of them organize and form calcified splenic masses. Angiosarcoma is an uncommon primary tumor of the spleen. Splenic angiosarcoma behaves extremely aggressive and has poor prognosis.Case Presentation. We report a forty-nine-year-old white male with organized splenic hematoma due to traffic accident mimicking splenic angiosarcoma.Conclusion. Both angiosarcoma and splenic organized hematoma have nonspecific symptoms and clinical findings. Because of the risk of hemorrhage and rupture, fine-needle biopsy should not be preferred. In case of splenic masses, excision and spleen-conserving surgery or total splenectomy should be performed.
Gastric Schwannoma: A Rare but Important Differential Diagnosis of a Gastric Submucosal Mass
Authors: Yoon William , Paulson Kari , Mazzara Paul , Nagori Sweety , Barawi Mohammed , Berri Richard
Published: August 2012

Schwannomas are generally slow growing asymptomatic neoplasms that rarely occur in the GI tract. However, if found, the most common site is the stomach. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are the most common mesenchymal tumors of the gastrointestinal tract, and 60–70% of them occur in the stomach. Owing to their typical presentation as submucosal neoplasms, gastric schwannomas and GISTs appear grossly similar. Accordingly, the differential diagnosis for a gastric submucosal mass should include gastric schwannomas. Furthermore, GI schwannomas are benign neoplasms with excellent prognosis after surgical resection, whereas 10–30% of GISTs have malignant behavior. Hence, it is important to distinguish gastric schwannomas from GISTs to make an accurate diagnosis to optimally guide treatment options. Nevertheless, owing to the paucity of gastric schwannomas, the index of suspicion for this diagnosis is low. We report a rare case of gastric schwannoma in 53-year-old woman who underwent laparoscopic partial gastrectomy under the suspicion of a GIST preoperatively but confirmed to have a gastric schwannoma postoperatively. This case underscores the importance of including gastric schwannomas in the differential diagnosis when preoperative imaging studies reveal a submucosal, exophytic gastric mass. For a gastric schwannoma, complete margin negative surgical resection is the curative treatment of choice.
Geochronology and Tectonic Evolution of the Lincang Batholith in Southwestern Yunnan, China
Authors: Zhang Hongyuan , Liu Junlai , Wu Wenbin
Published: August 2012

Geochronological research of the Lincang Batholith is one key scientific problem to discuss the tectonic evolution of the Tethys. Two granitic specimens were selected from the Mengku-Douge area in the Lincang Batholith to perform the LA-ICPMS Zircon U-Pb dating based on thorough review of petrological, geochemical, and geochronological data by the former scientists. Rock-forming age data of biotite granite specimen from Kunsai is about 220 Ma, the Norian age. However, the west sample from Mengku shows 230 Ma, the Carnian age. The later intrusion in Kunsai area located east to the Mengku area shows directly their uneven phenomena in both space and time and may indirectly reflect the space difference of the contraction-extension transformation period of the deep seated faults. Considering the former 40Ar/39Ar data and the outcrop in Mengku, the Lincang Batholith should have experienced one tectonic exhumation and regional subsidence cycle. The regional subsidence cycle has close relations to the expansion of the Meso Tethys.
A New Photocatalytic System Using Steel Mesh and Cold Cathode Fluorescent Light for the Decolorization of Azo Dye Orange G
Authors: Chang Ming-Chin , Huang Chin-Pao , Shu Hung-Yee , Chang Yung-Chen
Published: August 2012

High color and organic composition, the effluents from the textile dyeing and finishing industry, can be treated by photocatalytic oxidation with UV/TiO2. The objective of this study was to prepare a new photocatalytic system by coating nanosized TiO2particles on steel mesh support and using cold cathode fluorescent light (CCFL) irradiation at 365 nm in a closed reactor for the oxidation of azo dye C.I. Orange G (OG). Various factors such as reaction time, coating temperature, TiO2dosage, pH, initial dye concentration, and service duration were studied. Results showed efficient color removal of the OG azo dye by the photocatalytic system with TiO2-coated temperature at 150°C. The optimal TiO2dosage for color removal was 60 g m−2. An acidic pH of 2.0 was sufficient for photocatalytic oxidation whereas basic condition was not. The rate of color removal decreased with increase in the initial dye concentration. The TiO2-coated steel mesh can be used repeatedly over 10 times without losing the photocatalytic efficiency. Results of FTIR and IC indicated the breakage of N=N bonds, with sulfate as the major and nitrite and nitrate as the minor products, which implied degradation of dye molecules.
ARQ-Aware Scheduling and Link Adaptation for Video Transmission over Mobile Broadband Networks
Authors: Sgardoni Victoria , Bull David R. , Nix Andrew R.
Published: August 2012

This paper studies the effect of ARQ retransmissions on packet error rate, delay, and jitter at the application layer for a real-time video transmission at 1.03 Mbps over a mobile broadband network. The effect of time-correlated channel errors for various Mobile Station (MS) velocities is evaluated. In the context of mobile WiMAX, the role of the ARQ Retry Timeout parameter and the maximum number of ARQ retransmissions is taken into account. ARQ-aware and channel-aware scheduling is assumed in order to allocate adequate resources according to the level of packet error rate and the number of ARQ retransmissions required. A novel metric, namely,goodput per frame, is proposed as a measure of transmission efficiency. Results show that to attain quasi error free transmission and low jitter (for real-time video QoS), only QPSK 1/2 can be used at mean channel SNR values between 12 dB and 16 dB, while 16QAM 1/2 can be used below 20 dB at walking speeds. However, these modes are shown to result in low transmission efficiency, attaining, for example, a total goodput of 3 Mbps at an SNR of 14 dB, for a block lifetime of 90 ms. It is shown that ARQ retransmissions are more effective at higher MS speeds.
Retroperitoneal Extrarenal Angiomyolipomas: An Evidence-Based Approach to a Rare Clinical Entity
Authors: Minja Emmanuel J. , Pellerin Megan , Saviano Nicole , Chamberlain Ronald S.
Published: August 2012

Extrarenal angiomyolipomas (ERAMLs) are rare tumors that present as incidentalomas upon imaging for other conditions. Retroperitoneal ERAMLs present a unique challenge from a diagnostic and treatment standpoint as they can mimic other benign and malignant retroperitoneal tumors. We present a case of a 39-year-old female with a 19.3 cm × 13.5 cm × 10.7 cm left extrarenal retroperitoneal mass. Histopathologic examination and HMB-45 staining revealed the mass to be a retroperitoneal ERAML. Our case report provides a comprehensive literature review and an evidence-based algorithm for taking care of patients with ERAMLs.
Some Identities on Laguerre Polynomials in Connection with Bernoulli and Euler Numbers
Authors: Kim Dae San , Kim Taekyun , Dolgy Dmitry V.
Published: August 2012

We study some interesting identities and properties of Laguerre polynomials in connection with Bernoulli and Euler numbers. These identities are derived from the orthogonality of Laguerre polynomials with respect to inner product .
The Accuracy of Behavioural Data Collected by Visitors in a Zoo Environment: Can Visitors Collect Meaningful Data?
Authors: Williams Rachel L. , Porter Sue K. , Hart Adam G. , Goodenough Anne E.
Published: August 2012

Volunteer data collection can be valuable for research. However, accuracy of such data is often a cause for concern. If clear, simple methods are used, volunteers can monitor species presence and abundance in a similar manner to professionals, but it is unknown whether volunteers could collect accurate data on animal behaviour. In this study, visitors at a Wetlands Centre were asked to record behavioural data for a group of captive otters by means of a short questionnaire. They were also asked to provide information about themselves to determine whether various factors would influence their ability to collect data. Using a novel analysis technique based on PCA, visitor data were compared to baseline activity budget data collected by a trained biologist to determine whether visitor data were accurate. Although the response rate was high, visitors were unable to collect accurate data. The principal reason was that visitors exceeded the observation time stated in the instructions, rather than being unable to record behaviours accurately. We propose that automated recording stations, such as touchscreen displays, might prevent this as well as other potential problems such as temporal autocorrelation of data and may result in accurate data collection by visiting members of the public.
The Role of pH in PEG-b-PAAc Modification of Gadolinium Oxide Nanostructures for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Hemmer Eva , Venkatachalam Nallusamy , Hyodo Hiroshi , Soga Kohei
Published: August 2012

Upconversion and near-infrared emitting Gd2O3:Er3+,Yb3+nanostructured phosphors (nanoparticles and nanorods) for applications in bioimaging have been synthesized by precipitation methods and hydrothermal treatment. Variation of the material synthesis conditions (additives and pH) allows controlling particle size (40 nm to μm range) and rod aspect ratio (5 to 18). It was shown that PEG-b-PAAc (poly(ethylene glycol) poly(acrylic acid) block polymer) is suitable to provide the required chemical durability, dispersion stability, and noncytotoxic behaviour for biomedical applications, where the coating of Gd2O3with a protecting and biocompatible layer is essential in order to prevent the release of toxic Gd3+ions. Physicochemical properties of the Gd2O3:Er3+,Yb3+nanostructures modified with PEG-b-PAAc have been investigated by TG-DTA, FT-IR, and DLS revealing a strong influence of modification conditions, namely, pH of the reaction media, on the nature of the PEG-b-PAAc layer.
Crohn’s Disease Presenting with Pyogenic Liver Abscess: A Case Report
Authors: McGreal Sharon , Sayers Rupert , Wurm Peter , West Kevin
Published: August 2012

Pyogenic liver abscess (PLA) is a rare extraintestinal complication of Crohn’s disease (CD), and the clinical and laboratory findings may emulate the reactivation of CD, therefore, delaying diagnosis. In this paper the patient presented with PLA as the initial manifestation of CD and experienced severe disease. The finding of PLA was established by computed tomography and initial treatment involved percutaneous drainage and antibiotics. The diagnosis of CD was made after colonoscopy and histological investigations.
Numerical Simulation of the FitzHugh‐Nagumo Equations
Authors: Soliman A. A.
Published: August 2012

The variational iteration method and Adomian decomposition method are applied to solve the FitzHugh‐Nagumo (FN) equations. The two algorithms are illustrated by studying an initial value problem. The obtained results show that only few terms are required to deduce approximated solutions which are found to be accurate and efficient.
Urethral Hairballs as a Long-Term Complication of Hypospadias Repair: Two Case Reports
Authors: Kampantais Spyridon , Dimitriadis Charalampos , Laskaridis Leonidas , Perdikis Ioannis , Kirtsis Petros , Toutziaris Chrysovalantis
Published: August 2012

Many times hair-bearing urethral grafts have been used inadvertently in the treatment of hypospadias. This can be accompanied with numerous troublesome long-term complications such as formation of stones, diverticula, and hairballs. We report two cases of men with a history of hypospadias repair being affected by such complications. We also discuss about their management and the effect of thioglycolic acid instillation to stop hair growth in the urethra mucosa in the second case.
On a Modeling of Online User Behavior Using Function Representation
Authors: Pesout Pavel , Matustik Ondrej
Published: August 2012

Understanding the online user system requirements has become very crucial for online services providers. The existence of many users and services leads to different users’ needs. The objective of this presented piece of work is to explore the algorithms of how to optimize providers supply with proposing a new way to represent user requirements as continuous functions depending on time. We address the problems of the prediction the of system requirements and reducing model complexity by creating the typical user behavior profiles.
Iteration of Differentiable Functions underm-Modal Maps with Aperiodic Kneading Sequences
Authors: Correia Maria F. , Ramos Carlos C. , Vinagre Sandra
Published: August 2012

We consider the dynamical system (, ), where is a class of differentiable functions defined on some interval and : → is the operator , where is a differentiablem-modal map. Using an algorithm, we obtained some numerical and symbolic results related to the frequencies of occurrence of critical values of the iterated functions when the kneading sequences of are aperiodic. Moreover, we analyze the evolution as well as the distribution of the aperiodic critical values of the iterated functions.
Adjuvant Bidirectional Chemotherapy with Intraperitoneal Pemetrexed Combined with Intravenous Cisplatin for Diffuse Malignant Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Authors: Bijelic Lana , Stuart O. Anthony , Sugarbaker Paul
Published: August 2012

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) with heated intraoperative intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) has emerged as optimal treatment for diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma (DMPM) showing median survivals of 36–92 months. However, recurrences occur frequently even in patients undergoing optimal cytreduction and are often confined to the abdomen. We initiated a Phase II study of adjuvant intraperitoneal pemetrexed combined with intravenous cisplatin for patients undergoing CRS and HIPEC for DMPM. The treatment consisted of pemetrexed 500 mg/m2intraperitoneally and cisplatin 50 mg/m2intravenously given simultaneously on day 1 of every 21 day cycle for 6 cycles. The primary endpoint of the study was treatment related toxicity. From July 2007 until July 2009 ten patients were enrolled. Nine of 10 completed all 6 cycles of adjuvant treatment per protocol. The most common toxicities were fatigue, nausea and abdominal pain grade 1 or 2. There was one grade 3 toxicity consisting of a catheter infection. The median survival for all 10 patients was 33.5 months. Pharmacokinetic analysis of intraperitoneal pemetrexed showed a peritoneal to plasma area under the curve ratio of 70. Our study shows that adjuvant intravenous cisplatin and intraperitoneal pemetrexed can be used following CRS and HIPEC for DMPM with low morbidity.
Interval and Point Estimators for the Location Parameter of the Three-Parameter Lognormal Distribution
Authors: Chen Zhenmin , Miao Feng
Published: August 2012

The three-parameter lognormal distribution is the extension of the two-parameter lognormal distribution to meet the need of the biological, sociological, and other fields. Numerous research papers have been published for the parameter estimation problems for the lognormal distributions. The inclusion of the location parameter brings in some technical difficulties for the parameter estimation problems, especially for the interval estimation. This paper proposes a method for constructing exact confidence intervals and exact upper confidence limits for the location parameter of the three-parameter lognormal distribution. The point estimation problem is discussed as well. The performance of the point estimator is compared with the maximum likelihood estimator, which is widely used in practice. Simulation result shows that the proposed method is less biased in estimating the location parameter. The large sample size case is discussed in the paper.
Reactive Oxygen Species in Health and Disease
Authors: Alfadda Assim A. , Sallam Reem M.
Published: August 2012

During the past decades, it became obvious that reactive oxygen species (ROS) exert a multitude of biological effects covering a wide spectrum that ranges from physiological regulatory functions to damaging alterations participating in the pathogenesis of increasing number of diseases. This review summarizes the key roles played by the ROS in both health and disease. ROS are metabolic products arising from various cells; two cellular organelles are intimately involved in their production and metabolism, namely, the endoplasmic reticulum and the mitochondria. Updates on research that tremendously aided in confirming the fundamental roles of both organelles in redox regulation will be discussed as well. Although not comprehensive, this review will provide brief perspective on some of the current research conducted in this area for better understanding of the ROS actions in various conditions of health and disease.
Mixed Mortar Element Method forP1NC/P0 Element and Its Multigrid Method for the Incompressible Stokes Problem
Authors: Jiang Yaqin , Chen Jinru
Published: August 2012

We discuss a mortar‐type element method for the incompressible Stokes problem. We prove the inf‐sup condition and obtain the optimal error estimate. Meanwhile, we propose a 𝒲‐cycle multigrid for solving this discrete problem and prove the optimal convergence of the multigrid method, that is, the convergence rate is independent of the mesh size and mesh level. Finally, numerical experiments are presented to confirm our theoretical results.