bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling seed user from short message records
Authors: Zheng Guoqing , Liu Jinshan
Published: October 2014

Short messages are an important part of social media network. Besides traditional communications, short messages can also be used for education, entertainment and even business. Nowadays, much work has been devoted to mining useful information and knowledge from short messages via classification and clustering approaches. However, in many situations, it is vital to identify some influential users whose messages will result in a large amount of forwarding, these users are called seed users. In this paper, studies on the forwarding behavior of mobile phone users are carried out first, then, a directed graph-based short message forwarding model is setup, together with a "Reverse PageRank" scoring policy. Finally, the forwarding model and scoring policy have been applied to a real short message record dataset from some telecom operator. By some exploratory data analysis of the dataset, parameters of the forwarding model are determined. Experimental results show that the model and the scoring policy are effective in finding out seed users.
AOTF-Based Spectral Imaging for Balloon-Borne Platforms
Authors: Chanover Nancy J. , Voelz David G. , Glenar David A. , Young Eliot F.
Published: October 2014

A balloon-borne Acousto-Optic Tunable Filter (AOTF) hyperspectral imager is ideally suited to address numerous outstanding questions in planetary science. The spectral agility, narrowband wavelength selection, tolerance to the near-space environment, and spectral coverage afforded by AOTFs would enable investigations not feasible from ground-based facilities. Example use cases include synoptic observations of clouds on Venus and the giant planets, studies of molecular emissions from cometary comae, the mapping of hydrocarbon ices on the surfaces of Triton, and polarimetry. A notional AOTF imager design includes both visible and near-infrared channels to take full advantage of the spectral coverage of an AOTF. Although technical challenges such as detector cooling would require further performance modeling, an AOTF hyperspectral imager is a logical choice for planetary science investigations from a balloon platform and would constitute a logical next step in the demonstration of AOTFs as a enabling technology for planetary flight projects.
Classification Models for RFID-Based Real-Time Detection of Process Events in the Supply Chain
Authors: Keller Thorben , Thiesse Frédéric , Fleisch Elgar
Published: October 2014

RFID technology allows the collecting of fine-grained real-time information on physical processes in the supply chain that often cannot be monitored using conventional approaches. However, because of the phenomenon of false-positive reads, RFID data streams resemble noisy analog measurements rather than the desired recordings of activities within a business process. The present study investigates the use of data mining techniques for filtering and aggregating raw RFID data. We consider classifiers based on logistic regression, decision trees, and artificial neural networks using attributes derived from low-level reader data. In addition, we present a custom-made algorithm for generating decision rules using artificial attributes and an iterative training procedure. We evaluate the classifiers using a massive set of data on pallet movements collected under real-world conditions at one of the largest retailers worldwide. The results clearly indicate high classification performance of the classification models, with the rule-based classifier outperforming all others. Moreover, we show that utilizing the full spectrum of data generated by the reader hardware leads to superior performance compared with the approaches based on timestamp and antenna information proposed in prior research.
Assessing the Effect of Screen Mockups on the Comprehension of Functional Requirements
Authors: Ricca Filippo , Scanniello Giuseppe , Torchiano Marco , Reggio Gianna , Astesiano Egidio
Published: October 2014

Over the last few years, the software engineering community has proposed a number of modeling methods to represent functional requirements. Among them, use cases are recognized as an easy to use and intuitive way to capture and define such requirements. Screen mockups (also called user-interface sketches or user interface-mockups) have been proposed as a complement to use cases for improving the comprehension of functional requirements. In this article, we aim at quantifying the benefits achievable by augmenting use cases with screen mockups in the comprehension of functional requirements with respect to effectiveness, effort, and efficiency. For this purpose, we conducted a family of four controlled experiments, involving 139 participants having different profiles. The experiments involved comprehension tasks performed on the requirements documents of two desktop applications. Independently from the participants' profile, we found a statistically significant large effect of the presence of screen mockups on both comprehension effectiveness and comprehension task efficiency. No significant effect was observed on the effort to complete tasks. The main pragmatic lesson is that the screen mockups addition to use cases is able to almost double the efficiency of comprehension tasks.
The 6th Workshop on Active Internet Measurements (AIMS-6) Report
Authors: claffy kimberly c. , Clark David D. , Wittie Michael
Published: October 2014

On 26-27 March 2014, CAIDA hosted the sixth Workshop on Active Internet Measurements (AIMS-6) as part of our series of Internet Statistics and Metrics Analysis (ISMA) workshops. As with previous AIMS workshops, the goals were to further our understanding of the potential and limitations of active measurement research and infrastructure in the wide-area Internet, and to promote cooperative solutions and coordinated strategies between academics, industry, policymakers, and funding agencies in the area of active Internet measurement. This year, we explored capabilities and opportunities for network measurement in the wireless domain, and research infrastructure to support it. Participants found the workshop content challengingly diverse, with substantial knowledge exchange regarding the wireless research infrastructure landscape(s) and existing measurement capabilities. But attendees agreed that the conversation was only beginning, and that some challenges merit further discussion, such as finding consensus on standard metrics to measure, and constructing a road map for wireless measurement research infrastructure and activities for the next decade. This report describes topics discussed at the workshop, and summarizes participants' views of priorities for future funding as well as follow-on workshops in this area. Materials related to the workshop are available at http://www.caida.org/workshops/aims/1403/.
Today Prospects for Tissue Engineering Therapeutic Approach in Dentistry
Authors: Bossù Maurizio , Pacifici Andrea , Carbone Daniele , Tenore Gianluca , Ierardo Gaetano , Pacifici Luciano , Polimeni Antonella
Published: October 2014

In dental practice there is an increasing need for predictable therapeutic protocols able to regenerate tissues that, due to inflammatory or traumatic events, may suffer from loss of their function. One of the topics arising major interest in the research applied to regenerative medicine is represented by tissue engineering and, in particular, by stem cells. The study of stem cells in dentistry over the years has shown an exponential increase in literature. Adult mesenchymal stem cells have recently been isolated and characterized from tooth-related tissues and they might represent, in the near future, a new gold standard in the regeneration of all oral tissues. The aim of our review is to provide an overview on the topic reporting the current knowledge for each class of dental stem cells and to identify their potential clinical applications as therapeutic tool in various branches of dentistry.
The Role of Oxidative Stress and the Effects of Antioxidants on the Incidence of Infectious Complications of Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Gaman Amelia Maria , Buga Ana-Maria , Gaman Mihnea-Alexandru , Popa-Wagner Aurel
Published: October 2014

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is characterized by a predominant humoral immune deficiency predisposing the patients to infections. Oxidative stress leads to an increased immunoglobulin k light chain production in B cells and contributes to the antibodies’ deficiency and hypogammaglobulinemia.Aim of the Study. To evaluate the global oxidative status in patients with CLL and to determine whether the administration of antioxidants decreases complications due to infections.Patients and Method. We studied 84 patients with CLL stratified by Binet staging. Free oxygen radicals and antioxidant status were determined by the FORT and FORD test, respectively, at diagnosis and in the presence of infections. The patients were distributed in two groups: group A, treated only with antileukemic treatment, and group B, treated with antileukemic treatment and antioxidants.Results. By FORD and FORT assay, all patients had at diagnosis a low antioxidant capacity, and high levels of hydroperoxides. Infectious complications were more frequent in group A (B/C stages of disease) than in group B. Administrations of antioxidants stimulated the immune response and decreased infectious complications in CLL.Conclusions. Administrations of antioxidants and a healthy life style may improve the quality of life of patients with CLL and reduce the risk of infectious complications.
The Magnitude and Impact of Bullying among School Pupils in Muscat, Oman: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Al-Saadoon Muna , Al-Farsi Yahya M. , Rizvi Syed , Al-Sharbati Marwan , Al-Jabri Abdullah , Almamari Sufyan , Al-Baluki Wafaa , Al-Adawi Samir
Published: October 2014

Research about bullying among school pupils in the Arab/Muslim population is scarce. This study evaluates the characteristics of bullying and its impact among school pupils in Oman via cross-sectional survey among eighth grade school pupils (n= 1,229) during the academic year 2006-2007. The participants were selected using stratified random selection among 6 administrative divisions of one the governorates in the country. Data were collected using self-completed structured questionnaires. This study found similar percentages of males and females (76%) have experienced one form of bullying, and the majority of the incidents (80%) occurred in the vicinity of the school. In almost half of the cases, the bullying was initiated by a student of the same age or older than the victim. The most common type of bullying encountered in this study was verbal (47.7%), followed by misuse (45.9%), physical (43.9%), and, finally, social isolation/exclusion (22.5%). Although the failure of an academic year was uncommon among victims of bullying, the number of pupils who missed 4–6 and ≥7 school days was higher among bullied pupils. If this study will withstand further research, educational initiatives are needed to mitigate the rate of bullying in Oman.
Bone Mineral Density at Diagnosis of Celiac Disease and after 1 Year of Gluten-Free Diet
Authors: Pantaleoni Stefano , Luchino Massimo , Adriani Alessandro , Pellicano Rinaldo , Stradella Davide , Ribaldone Davide Giuseppe , Sapone Nicoletta , Isaia Gian Carlo , Di Stefano Marco , Astegiano Marco
Published: October 2014

Atypical or silent celiac disease may go undiagnosed for many years and can frequently lead to loss of bone mineral density, with evolution to osteopenia or osteoporosis. The prevalence of the latter conditions, in case of new diagnosis of celiac disease, has been evaluated in many studies but, due to the variability of epidemiologic data and patient features, the results are contradictory. The aim of this study was to evaluate bone mineral density by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in 175 consecutive celiac patients at time of diagnosis (169 per-protocol, 23 males, 146 females; average age 38.9 years). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry was repeated after 1 year of gluten-free diet in those withT-score value <−1 at diagnosis. Stratification of patients according to sex and age showed a higher prevalence of low bone mineral density in men older than 30 years and in women of all ages. A 1-year gluten-free diet led to a significant improvement in lumbar spine and femoral neck meanT-score value. We propose that dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry should be performed at diagnosis of celiac disease in all women and in male aged >30 years, taking into account each risk factor in single patients.
Global Convergence of Schubert’s Method for Solving Sparse Nonlinear Equations
Authors: Cao Huiping
Published: October 2014

Schubert’s method is an extension of Broyden’s method for solving sparse nonlinear equations, which can preserve the zero-nonzero structure defined by the sparse Jacobian matrix and can retain many good properties of Broyden’s method. In particular, Schubert’s method has been proved to be locally andq-superlinearly convergent. In this paper, we globalize Schubert’s method by using a nonmonotone line search. Under appropriate conditions, we show that the proposed algorithm converges globally and superlinearly. Some preliminary numerical experiments are presented, which demonstrate that our algorithm is effective for large-scale problems.
Amino Acid Compositions of 27 Food Fishes and Their Importance in Clinical Nutrition
Authors: Mohanty Bimal , Mahanty Arabinda , Ganguly Satabdi , Sankar T. V. , Chakraborty Kajal , Rangasamy Anandan , Paul Baidyanath , Sarma Debajit , Mathew Suseela , Asha Kurukkan Kunnath , Behera Bijay , Aftabuddin Md. , Debnath Dipesh , Vijayagopal P. , Sridhar N. , Akhtar M. S. , Sahi Neetu , Mitra Tandrima , Banerjee Sudeshna , Paria Prasenjit , Das Debajeet , Das Pushpita , Vijayan K. K. , Laxmanan P. T. , Sharma A. P.
Published: October 2014

Proteins and amino acids are important biomolecules which regulate key metabolic pathways and serve as precursors for synthesis of biologically important substances; moreover, amino acids are building blocks of proteins. Fish is an important dietary source of quality animal proteins and amino acids and play important role in human nutrition. In the present investigation, crude protein content and amino acid compositions of important food fishes from different habitats have been studied. Crude protein content was determined by Kjeldahl method and amino acid composition was analyzed by high performance liquid chromatography and information on 27 food fishes was generated. The analysis showed that the cold water species are rich in lysine and aspartic acid, marine fishes in leucine, small indigenous fishes in histidine, and the carps and catfishes in glutamic acid and glycine. The enriched nutrition knowledge base would enhance the utility of fish as a source of quality animal proteins and amino acids and aid in their inclusion in dietary counseling and patient guidance for specific nutritional needs.
Conjugates of a Photoactivated Rhodamine with Biopolymers for Cell Staining
Authors: Zaitsev Sergei Yu. , Shaposhnikov Mikhail N. , Solovyeva Daria O. , Solovyeva Valeria V. , Rizvanov Albert A.
Published: October 2014

Conjugates of the photoactivated rhodamine dyes with biopolymers (proteins, polysaccharides, and nucleic acids) are important tools for microscopic investigation of biological tissue. In this study, a precursor of the photoactivated fluorescent dye (PFD) has been successfully used for staining of numerous mammalian cells lines and for conjugate formation with chitosan (“Chitosan-PFD”) and histone H1 (“Histone H1.3-PFD”). The intensive fluorescence has been observed after photoactivation of these conjugates inside cells (A431, HaCaT, HEK239, HBL-100, and MDCK). Developed procedures and obtained data are important for further application of novel precursors of fluorescent dyes (“caged” dyes) for microscopic probing of biological objects. Thus, the synthesized “Chitosan-PFD” and “Histone H1-PFD” have been successfully applied in this study for intracellular transport visualization by fluorescent microscopy.
Effects of Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells Isolated from Wharton’s Jelly of the Umbilical Cord and Conditioned Media on Skeletal Muscle Regeneration Using a Myectomy Model
Authors: Pereira T. , Armada-da Silva P. A. S. , Amorim I. , Rêma A. , Caseiro A. R. , Gärtner A. , Rodrigues M. , Lopes M. A. , Bártolo P. J. , Santos J. D. , Luís A. L. , Maurício A. C.
Published: October 2014

Skeletal muscle has good regenerative capacity, but the extent of muscle injury and the developed fibrosis might prevent complete regeneration. Thein vivoapplication of human mesenchymal stem cells (HMSCs) of the umbilical cord and the conditioned media (CM) where the HMSCs were cultured and expanded, associated with different vehicles to induce muscle regeneration, was evaluated in a rat myectomy model. Two commercially available vehicles and a spherical hydrogel developed by our research group were used. The treated groups obtained interesting results in terms of muscle regeneration, both in the histological and in the functional assessments. A less evident scar tissue, demonstrated by collagen type I quantification, was present in the muscles treated with HMSCs or their CM. In terms of the histological evaluation performed by ISO 10993-6 scoring, it was observed that HMSCs apparently have a long-term negative effect, since the groups treated with CM presented better scores. CM could be considered an alternative to thein vivotransplantation of these cells, as it can benefit from the local tissue response to secreted molecules with similar results in terms of muscular regeneration. Searching for an optimal vehicle might be the key point in the future of skeletal muscle tissue engineering.
Toxocara(Nematoda: Ascaridida) and Other Soil-Transmitted Helminth Eggs Contaminating Soils in Selected Urban and Rural Areas in the Philippines
Authors: Paller Vachel Gay V. , de Chavez Emmanuel Ryan C.
Published: October 2014

The extent of contamination of soils with soil transmitted helminthes (STH) eggs, particularlyToxocara, was determined in selected urban and rural towns of Laguna, Philippines. Soil samples were collected from public schools, house yards, and empty lots. Results revealed that, of the 1480 soil samples collected, 460 (31%) were positive for STH eggs.Toxocarasp. was the most prevalent (77%), followed byAscarissp. (11%), hookworms/strongyles/free-living nematodes (7%), andTrichurissp. (5%). Some soil physicochemical parameters were also determined and associated withToxocaraeggs prevalence and density in soil. Results revealed thatToxocarasp. eggs were most prevalent in less acidic, relatively high temperature and high moisture soil conditions. They were also prevalent in sandy, silty, and loamy soil textures but less prevalent in clayey. No significant differences were found between depth 1 (0–5 cm) and depth 2 (6–10 cm). This study revealed thatToxocarasp. eggs are ubiquitous and the extent of contamination in soils from the selected towns of Laguna is relatively high. Hence, the data generated in this study can be used in promoting public awareness, particularly for pet owners and local health officials, for effective prevention and control of this parasitosis.
Bridge Management Strategy Based on Extreme User Costs for Bridge Network Condition
Authors: Lwambuka Ladislaus , Mtenga Primus V.
Published: October 2014

This paper presents a practical approach for prioritization of bridge maintenance within a given bridge network. The maintenance prioritization is formulated as a multiobjective optimization problem where the simultaneous satisfaction of several conflicting objectives includes minimization of maintenance costs, maximization of bridge deck condition, and minimization of traffic disruption and associated user costs. The prevalence of user cost during maintenance period is twofold; the first case refers to the period of dry season where normally the traffic flow is diverted to alternative routes usually resurfaced to regain traffic access. The second prevalence refers to the absence of alternative routes which is often the case in the least developed countries; in this case the user cost referred to results from the waiting time while the traffic flow is put on hold awaiting accomplishment of the maintenance activity. This paper deals with the second scenario of traffic closure in the absence of alternative diversion routes which in essence results in extreme user cost. The paper shows that the multiobjective optimization approach remains valid for extreme cases of user costs in the absence of detour roads as often is the scenario in countries with extreme poor road infrastructure.
Solid Tumor-Targeting Theranostic Polymer Nanoparticle in Nuclear Medicinal Fields
Authors: Makino Akira , Kimura Shunsaku
Published: October 2014

Polymer nanoparticles can be prepared by self-assembling of amphiphilic polymers, and various types of molecular assemblies have been reported. In particular, in medicinal fields, utilization of these polymer nanoparticles as carriers for drug delivery system (DDS) has been actively tried, and some nanoparticulate drugs are currently under preclinical evaluations. A radionuclide is an unstable nucleus and decays with emission of radioactive rays, which can be utilized as a tracer in the diagnostic imaging systems of PET and SPECT and also in therapeutic purposes. Since polymer nanoparticles can encapsulate most of diagnostic and therapeutic agents with a proper design of amphiphilic polymers, they should be effective DDS carriers of radionuclides in the nuclear medicinal field. Indeed, nanoparticles have been recently attracting much attention as common platform carriers for diagnostic and therapeutic drugs and contribute to the development of nanotheranostics. In this paper, recent developments of solid tumor-targeting polymer nanoparticles in nuclear medicinal fields are reviewed.
Postpartum Prolapsed Leiomyoma with Uterine Inversion Managed by Vaginal Hysterectomy
Authors: Pieh-Holder Kelly L. , Bell Heidi , Hall Tana , DeVente James E.
Published: October 2014

Background. Uterine inversion is a rare, but life threatening, obstetrical emergency which occurs when the uterine fundus collapses into the endometrial cavity. Various conservative and surgical therapies have been outlined in the literature for the management of uterine inversions.Case. We present a case of a chronic, recurrent uterine inversion, which was diagnosed following spontaneous vaginal delivery and recurred seven weeks later. The uterine inversion was likely due to a leiomyoma. This late-presenting, chronic, recurring uterine inversion was treated with a vaginal hysterectomy.Conclusion. Uterine inversions can occur in both acute and chronic phases. Persistent vaginal bleeding with the appearance of a prolapsing fibroid should prompt further investigation for uterine inversion and may require surgical therapy. A vaginal hysterectomy may be an appropriate management option in select populations and may be considered in women who do not desire to maintain reproductive function.
Phenotypic and Proteomic Characteristics of Human Dental Pulp Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells from a Natal, an Exfoliated Deciduous, and an Impacted Third Molar Tooth
Authors: Akpinar Gurler , Kasap Murat , Aksoy Ayca , Duruksu Gokhan , Gacar Gulcin , Karaoz Erdal
Published: October 2014

The level of heterogeneity among the isolated stem cells makes them less valuable for clinical use. The purpose of this study was to understand the level of heterogeneity among human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells by using basic cell biology and proteomic approaches. The cells were isolated from a natal (NDPSCs), an exfoliated deciduous (stem cells from human exfoliated deciduous (SHED)), and an impacted third molar (DPSCs) tooth of three different donors. All three stem cells displayed similar features related to morphology, proliferation rates, expression of various cell surface markers, and differentiation potentials into adipocytes, osteocytes, and chondrocytes. Furthermore, using 2DE approach coupled with MALDI-TOF/TOF, we have generated a common 2DE profile for all three stem cells. We found that62.3±7% of the protein spots were conserved among the three mesenchymal stem cell lines. Sixty-one of these conserved spots were identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF analysis. Classification of the identified proteins based on biological function revealed that structurally important proteins and proteins that are involved in protein folding machinery are predominantly expressed by all three stem cell lines. Some of these proteins may hold importance in understanding specific properties of human dental pulp derived mesenchymal stem cells.
Existence of Solutions of a Partial Integrodifferential Equation with Thermostat and Time Delay
Authors: Bianca Carlo , Guerrini Luca , Lemarchand Annie
Published: October 2014

This paper deals with the mathematical analysis of a retarded partial integrodifferential equation that belongs to the class of thermostatted kinetic equations with time delay. Specifically, the paper is devoted to the proof of the existence and uniqueness of mild solutions of the related Cauchy problem. The main result is obtained by employing integration along the characteristic curves and successive approximations sequence arguments. Applications and perspective are also discussed within the paper.
Radioimmunotherapy: A Specific Treatment Protocol for Cancer by Cytotoxic Radioisotopes Conjugated to Antibodies
Authors: Kawashima Hidekazu
Published: October 2014

Radioimmunotherapy (RIT) represents a selective internal radiation therapy, that is, the use of radionuclides conjugated to tumor-directed monoclonal antibodies (including those fragments) or peptides. In a clinical field, two successful examples of this treatment protocol are currently extended by90Y-ibritumomab tiuxetan (Zevalin) and131I-tositumomab (Bexxar), both of which are anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies coupled to cytotoxic radioisotopes and are approved for the treatment of non-Hodgkin lymphoma patients. In addition, some beneficial observations are obtained in preclinical studies targeting solid tumors. To date, in order to reduce the unnecessary exposure and to enhance the therapeutic efficacy, various biological, chemical, and treatment procedural improvements have been investigated in RIT. This review outlines the fundamentals of RIT and current knowledge of the preclinical/clinical trials for cancer treatment.
A Focused Bayesian Information Criterion
Authors: Nguefack-Tsague Georges , Bulla Ingo
Published: October 2014

Myriads of model selection criteria (Bayesian and frequentist) have been proposed in the literature aiming at selecting a single model regardless of its intended use. An honorable exception in the frequentist perspective is the “focused information criterion” (FIC) aiming at selecting a model based on the parameter of interest (focus). This paper takes the same view in the Bayesian context; that is, a model may be good for one estimand but bad for another. The proposed method exploits the Bayesian model averaging (BMA) machinery to obtain a new criterion, thefocused Bayesian model averaging(FoBMA), for which the best model is the one whose estimate is closest to the BMA estimate. In particular, for two models, this criterion reduces to the classical Bayesian model selection scheme of choosing the model with the highest posterior probability. The new method is applied in linear regression, logistic regression, and survival analysis. This criterion is specially important in epidemiological studies in which the objective is often to determine a risk factor (focus) for a disease, adjusting for potential confounding factors.
Atypical Association of Angelman Syndrome and Klinefelter Syndrome in a Boy with 47,XXY Karyotype and Deletion 15q11.2-q13
Authors: Sánchez Javier , Peciña Ana , Alonso-Luengo Olga , González-Meneses Antonio , Vázquez Rocío , Antiñolo Guillermo , Borrego Salud
Published: October 2014

Angelman syndrome (AS, OMIM 105830) is a neurogenetic disorder with firm clinical diagnostic guidelines, characterized by severe developmental delay and speech impairment, balanced and behavioral disturbance as well as microcephaly, seizures, and a characteristic electroencephalogram (EEG). The majority of AS cases (70%) are caused by a 15q11.2-q13 deletion on the maternally derived chromosome. The frequency of AS has been estimated to be between 1/10000 and 1/20000. Klinefelter syndrome (KS) occurs due to the presence of an extra X chromosome (karyotype 47,XXY). The main features in KS are small testes, hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, gynecomastia, learning difficulties, and infertility. We present what is, to our knowledge, the first case of a patient with both KS and AS due to a 15q11.2-q13 deletion on the maternally derived chromosome and an extra X chromosome of paternal origin. He showed dysmorphic features, axial hypotonia, and delayed acquisition of motor skills. Early diagnosis is essential for optimal treatment of AS children; this is one of the earliest diagnosed cases of AS probably due to the presence of two syndromes. Clinical findings in this patient here described may be helpful to identify any other cases and to evaluate recurrence risks in these families.
Obstructive Sleep Apnea, Excessive Daytime Sleepiness, and Road Traffic Accidents among Interstate Commercial Vehicle Drivers in Nigeria
Authors: Obaseki Daniel O. , Erhabor Gregory E. , Obaseki Josephine E. , Abidoye Ibukun , Adebisi Akinjide , Olaiya Babatunde
Published: October 2014

Introduction. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a growing public health problem in developing countries. However the burden among commercial drivers is not well described. Methods. The Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Berlin questionnaire were administered to interstate commercial road transport drivers to assess the tendency to sleep in daytime and the risk of OSA, respectively. Body mass index (BMI), neck, and waist-hip circumferences were measured. Results. Out of 138 commercial drivers, 124 (90%) responded and provided complete data. The mean (SD) age, BMI, neck, and waist circumferences were 40.4 (9.3) years, 28.0 (4.6) kg/m2, 40.0 (3.0) cm, and 92.8 (11.1) cm, respectively. Twenty-two percent had ESS score above 11 and 36% of the respondents had a high risk for obstructive sleep apnea. Adjusting for age, BMI, and waist and neck circumferences, the key predictors of road accidents were ESS score above 11 (OR 3.77, 95% CI 1.18–12.06), self-reported diagnosis of hypertension (OR 4.63, 95% CI 1.46–14.69), and increasing hip circumference (OR 1.12, 95% CI 1.01–1.23). Conclusion. Obstructive sleep apnea is common among commercial interstate road drivers in Nigeria and ESS may be a simple tool for assessing accident risk.
Delineation of Fractured Aquifer Using Numerical Analysis (Factor) of Resistivity Data in a Granite Terrain
Authors: Andrade Rolland
Published: October 2014

In hard rock terrain, fractured aquifers comprise the major source of groundwater availability where the phreatic aquifer is desaturated. Identification of fracture zones in hard rock terrain and potential groundwater source delineation had been a perennial problem in hydrology. The purpose of this paper is to highlight the study over a small watershed area, in a granite terrain, wherein an attempt was made to delineate and map the fractured aquifer using numerical (factor) analysis of the conventional vertical electrical sounding data, which was obscure in curve matching technique. This numerical approach in concatenation with resistivity imaging or other techniques would prove to be an effective tool in groundwater exploration.
New Onset Refractory Status Epilepticus in a Young Man with H1N1 Infection
Authors: Ibrahim Faisal , Haddad Naim
Published: October 2014

Objective. To report a case of refractory status epilepticus (SE) as an unusual early manifestation of H1N1 influenza infection.Introduction. H1N1 neurological complications have been reported and consist mainly of seizures or encephalopathy occurring in children. However, we only found a single report of an adult developing complex partial SE with H1N1 infection.Case Report. A 21-year-old previously healthy man was brought to the emergency room (ER) after a witnessed generalized tonic clonic seizure (GTCS). He was fully alert and afebrile upon ER arrival, but a second GTCS prompted treatment with Lorazepam and Fosphenytoin. The initial EEG showed diffuse slowing, but a repeat one requested as the patient failed to regain consciousness revealed recurrent focal seizures of independent bihemispheric origin, fulfilling the criteria for nonconvulsive SE. Chest X-ray, followed by chest CT scan, showed a left upper lobe consolidation. H1N1 infection was confirmed with PCR on bronchoalveolar lavage material. Despite aggressive treatment with Midazolam, Propofol, and multiple high dose antiepileptic drugs, the electrographic seizures recurred at every attempt to reduce the intravenous sedative drugs. The patient died two weeks after his initial presentation.Conclusion. H1N1 should be added to the list of rare causes of refractory SE, regardless of the patient’s age.
Serious Delayed Hair Toe Tourniquet Syndrome with Bone Erosion and Flexor Tendon Lesion
Authors: Bizzotto Nicola , Sandri Andrea , Regis Dario , Carpeggiani Guillherme , Lavini Franco , Magnan Bruno
Published: October 2014

Hair toe tourniquet syndrome (HTTS) is an uncommon pediatric condition occurring when the toe is circumferentially strangulated by human hair or fibers. An 8-week-old little girl was admitted to the Emergency Department because of the worsening swelling in the right second and third toes, which had been been previously treated with a local antibiotic thinking of an infection. An unrecognized HTTS was leading the third toe to necrosis. An urgent release of the constricting band on the two toes was performed and bone erosion and partial flexor tendon lesion on the third toe were detected. We would like to raise awareness in the community and in colleagues about HTTS in children, because early recognition and urgent treatment are mandatory to provide an adequate management and prevent severe complications.
Effects of Temperature on Chronic Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome during Dry Needling Therapy
Authors: Wang Gang , Gao Qian , Hou Jingshan , Li Jun
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of temperature on chronic trapezius myofascial pain syndrome during dry needling therapy. Sixty patients were randomized into two groups of dry needling (DN) alone (group A) and DN combined with heat therapy group (group B). Each patient was treated once and the therapeutic effect was assessed by the visual analogue scale (VAS), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and the 36‐item short form health survey (SF‐36) at seven days, one month, and three months after treatment. Evaluation based on VAS and PPT showed that the pain of patients in groups A and B was significantly (P < 0.05) relieved at seven days, one month, and three months after treatment Compared to before treatment. There was significantly (P < 0.05) less pain in group B than group A at one and three months after treatment. The SF‐36 evaluation demonstrated that the physical condition of patients in both groups showed significant (P < 0.05) improvement at one month and three months after treatment than before treatment. Our study suggests that both DN and DN heating therapy were effective in the treatment of trapezius MPS, and that DN heating therapy had better long‐term effects than DN therapy.
Family Support and Loneliness among Older Persons in Multiethnic Malaysia
Authors: Teh Jane Kimm Lii , Tey Nai Peng , Ng Sor Tho
Published: October 2014

This study investigates factors affecting older persons’ state of loneliness in multiethnic Malaysia using data from the 2004 Malaysian Population and Family Survey, the first nationally representative sample in Malaysia. The study sample was extracted to include Malays, Chinese, Indians and other Indigenous groups aged 60 and above, and who had children (n= 1791). Cross tabulations and ordinal logistic regression methods were used in the analysis. Among the ethnic groups, older Malays were more likely than their Chinese and Indian counterparts to experience loneliness. Loneliness was found to be associated with age, marital status, education level, sources of income, health status, and physical limitations. Among older people, feelings of loneliness were inversely related with coresidence with adult children and participation in religious activities. Sociodemographic changes have eroded the traditional family support system for the elderly, while social security remains inadequate. This study shows the important role of family in alleviating loneliness among older people. Hence the need to promote and facilitate coresidence, as well as participation in religious activities, and a healthy lifestyle as a priority strategy is in line with the objectives of the National Policy for the Older People.
Stable Perturbed Iterative Algorithms for Solving New General Systems of Nonlinear Generalized Variational Inclusion in Banach Spaces
Authors: Xiong Ting-jian , Lan Heng-you
Published: October 2014

We introduce and study a new general system of nonlinear variational inclusions involving generalizedm-accretive mappings in Banach space. By using the resolvent operator technique associated with generalizedm-accretive mappings due to Huang and Fang, we prove the existence theorem of the solution for this variational inclusion system in uniformly smooth Banach space, and discuss convergence and stability of a class of new perturbed iterative algorithms for solving the inclusion system in Banach spaces. Our results presented in this paper may be viewed as an refinement and improvement of the previously known results.
Multidimensional Sternal Fixation to Overcome a “Floating” Sternum
Authors: Rothstein William , Spata Tyler , Whitson Bryan , Kilic Ahmet
Published: October 2014

This case report describes the repair of a complete sternal dehiscence of the lower right sternum using sternal wires, manubrial plates, and a Talon closure device for rigid, multidimensional sternal fixation. Sternal dehiscence is a rare but significant cause of morbidity for patients undergoing median sternotomy. The risk factors for this complication are well described and although sternal wires have traditionally been used for primary closure, rigid fixation with sternal plates is a viable alternative to avoid dehiscence in this high-risk cohort.
Bioactivity of Root Endophytic Freshwater HyphomycetesAnguillospora longissima(Sacc. & Syd.) Ingold
Authors: Sati S. C. , Singh Lokendra
Published: October 2014

Anguillospora longissima, isolated from root as endophytic freshwater hyphomycetes, was evaluated for its bioactivity (antibacterial potential) against five bacterial strains, namely, Gram-positive (Bacillus subtilisMTCC 121) and Gram-negative (Agrobacterium tumefaciensMTCC 609,Escherichia coliMTCC 40,Erwinia chrysanthemum,andXanthomonas pseudomonas). Antimicrobial activity was assessed by measuring the zone of inhibition with preliminary and secondary antimicrobial assays. The applied fungus was found significant for all tested bacterial strains as showen by their zone of inhibition. In preliminary antimicrobial assay, maximum zone of inhibition was recorded against Gram-negative human pathogenic bacterial strainEscherichia coli(23 mm) followed byErwinia chrysanthemi(22 mm),Agrobacterium tumefaciens(21 mm), andXanthomonas phaseoli(21 mm), while minimum zone of inhibition was observed againstBacillus subtilis(20 mm). In secondary antimicrobial assay, the maximum zone of inhibition was recorded againstErwinia chrysanthemi(11 mm) followed byAgrobacterium tumefaciens(10 mm),Xanthomonas phaseoli(10 mm), andBacillus subtilis(9 mm) and minimum inhibition was found againstEscherichia coli(8 mm).
Coadministration of Pinellia ternata Can Significantly Reduce Aconitum carmichaelii to Inhibit CYP3A Activity in Rats
Authors: Wu Jinjun , Cheng Zaixing , Zhu Lijun , Lu Linlin , Zhang Guiyu , Wang Ying , Xu Ying , Lin Na , Liu Zhongqiu
Published: October 2014

Chuanwu (CW), the mother root of Aconitum carmichaelii Debx., is a traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treating traumatic injuries, rheumatoid arthritis, and tumors. CW coadministered with banxia (BX), the root of Pinellia ternata, is also widely prescribed in clinical practice. However, the mechanism of this combination is yet deciphered. Current study aimed to investigate the effects of CW, including raw chuanwu (RCW) and processed chuanwu (PCW) alone, as well as CW coadministered with BX on CYP3A activity. Buspirone (BP) and testosterone (Tes) were used as specific probe substrates in vivo and ex vivo, respectively. CYP3A activity was determined by the metabolites formation ratios from the substrates. Compared with those in the control group, the metabolites formation ratios significantly decreased in the RCW and PCW alone groups, accompanied by a marked decrease in CYP3A protein and mRNA levels. However, there was a significant increase in those ratios in the RCW‐BX and PCW‐BX groups compared to the RCW and PCW alone groups. The results indicated that both RCW and PCW can inhibit CYP3A activity in rats because of downregulation of CYP3A protein and mRNA levels. Decreases in CYP3A activity can be reversed by coadministration with BX.
Comparative Evaluation of Biomass Power Generation Systems in China Using Hybrid Life Cycle Inventory Analysis
Authors: Liu Huacai , Yin Xiuli , Wu Chuangzhi
Published: October 2014

There has been a rapid growth in using agricultural residues as an energy source to generate electricity in China. Biomass power generation (BPG) systems may vary significantly in technology, scale, and feedstock and consequently in their performances. A comparative evaluation of five typical BPG systems has been conducted in this study through a hybrid life cycle inventory (LCI) approach. Results show that requirements of fossil energy savings, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions, as well as emission reductions of SO2and NOx, can be best met by the BPG systems. The cofiring systems were found to behave better than the biomass-only fired system and the biomass gasification systems in terms of energy savings and GHG emission reductions. Comparing with results of conventional process-base LCI, an important aspect to note is the significant contribution of infrastructure, equipment, and maintenance of the plant, which require the input of various types of materials, fuels, services, and the consequent GHG emissions. The results demonstrate characteristics and differences of BPG systems and help identify critical opportunities for biomass power development in China.
PRAK Interacts with DJ-1 and Prevents Oxidative Stress-Induced Cell Death
Authors: Tang Jing , Liu Jinghua , Li Xue , Zhong Yuyun , Zhong Tianyu , Liu Yawei , Wang Jiang Huai , Jiang Yong
Published: October 2014

As a core member of p38 MAPK signal transduction pathway, p38 regulated/activated kinase (PRAK) is activated by cellular stresses. However, the function of PRAK and its downstream interacting partner remain undefined. Using a yeast two-hybrid system, we identified DJ-1 as a potential PRAK interacting protein. We further verified that DJ-1 bound to PRAKin vitroandin vivoand colocalized with PRAK in the nuclei of NIH3T3 cells. Furthermore, following H2O2stimulation the majority of endogenous DJ-1 in PRAK+/+cells still remained in the nucleus, whereas most DJ-1 in PRAK−/−cells translocated from the nucleus into the cytoplasm, indicating that PRAK is essential for DJ-1 to localize in the nucleus. In addition, PRAK-associated phosphorylation of DJ-1 was observedin vitroandin vivoof H2O2-challenged PRAK+/+cells. Cytoplasmic translocation of DJ-1 in H2O2-treated PRAK−/−cells lost its ability to sequester Daxx, a death protein, in the nucleus, and as a result, Daxx gained access to the cytoplasm and triggered cell death. These data highlight that DJ-1 is the downstream interacting target for PRAK, and in response to oxidative stress PRAK may exert a cytoprotective effect by facilitating DJ-1 to sequester Daxx in the nucleus, thus preventing cell death.
Investigation of Micro- and Nanosized Particle Erosion in a 90° Pipe Bend Using a Two-Phase Discrete Phase Model
Authors: Safaei M. R. , Mahian O. , Garoosi F. , Hooman K. , Karimipour A. , Kazi S. N. , Gharehkhani S.
Published: October 2014

This paper addresses erosion prediction in 3-D, 90° elbow for two-phase (solid and liquid) turbulent flow with low volume fraction of copper. For a range of particle sizes from 10 nm to 100 microns and particle volume fractions from 0.00 to 0.04, the simulations were performed for the velocity range of 5–20 m/s. The 3-D governing differential equations were discretized using finite volume method. The influences of size and concentration of micro- and nanoparticles, shear forces, and turbulence on erosion behavior of fluid flow were studied. The model predictions are compared with the earlier studies and a good agreement is found. The results indicate that the erosion rate is directly dependent on particles’ size and volume fraction as well as flow velocity. It has been observed that the maximum pressure has direct relationship with the particle volume fraction and velocity but has a reverse relationship with the particle diameter. It also has been noted that there is a threshold velocity as well as a threshold particle size, beyond which significant erosion effects kick in. The average friction factor is independent of the particle size and volume fraction at a given fluid velocity but increases with the increase of inlet velocities.
Time Course of the Changes in Novel Trioxane Antimalarial 99/411 Pharmacokinetics upon Antiepileptic Drugs Co-Administration in SD Rats
Authors: Singh Yeshwant , Kushwaha Hari Narayan , Misra Anamika , Hidau Mahendra Kumar , Singh Shio Kumar
Published: October 2014

Objective. The study aimed to evaluate the influences of coadministration of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) on an antimalarial candidate 99/411 pharmacokinetic (PK) profile. Method. For this, single oral dose PK drug interaction studies were conducted between 99/411 and FDA approved AEDs, namely, Phenytoin (PHT), Carbamazepine (CBZ), and Gabapentin (GB) in both male and female SD rats, to assess the coadministered and intersexual influences on 99/411 PK profile. Results. Studies revealed that there were no significant alterations in the PK profile of 99/411 upon PHT and CBZ coadministration in both male and female rats, while systemic exposure of 99/411 was significantly increased by about 80% in female rats upon GB coadministration. In terms of AUC, there was an increase from 2471 ± 586 to 4560 ± 1396 ng·h/mL. Overall, it was concluded that simultaneous administration of AEDs with 99/411 excludes the requirements for dose adjustment, additional therapeutic monitoring, contraindication to concomitant use, and/or other measures to mitigate risk, except for GB coadministration in females. These findings are further helpful to predict such interactions in humans, when potentially applied through proper allometric scaling to extrapolate the data.