bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Community Vitality in Dynamic Temporal Networks
Authors: Cai Fu , Min Li , Deqing Zou , Shuyan Qu , Lansheng Han , Park James J.
Published: December 2013

Current researches on temporal networks mainly tend to detect community structure. A number of community detection algorithms can obtain community structure on each time slice or each period of time but rarely present the evolution of community structure. Some papers discussed the process of community structure evolution but lacked quantifying the evolution. In this paper, we put forward the concept of Community Vitality (CV), which shows a community's life intensity on a time slice. In the process of computing CV, the “dead communities” can also be distinguished. Moreover, CV cannot only be used to quantify the life intensity of a community but also be used to describe the process of community evolution over time. More specifically, the change of community's structure will be found if CVs for different time slices of a community were compared, while the community with big value of CV can be selected if CVs for different communities were compared. Furthermore, community vitality change rate (CVCR) is proposed for revealing communities' structure change. The results of our experiments show that community vitality is a novel and effective way to understand or model the community evolution.
An Analytical Solution for Effect of Magnetic Field and Initial Stress on an Infinite Generalized Thermoelastic Rotating Nonhomogeneous Diffusion Medium
Authors: Mahmoud S. R.
Published: December 2013

The problem of generalized magneto-thermoelastic diffusion in an infinite rotating nonhomogeneity medium subjected to certain boundary conditions is studied. The chemical potential is also assumed to be a known function of time at the boundary of the cavity. The analytical expressions for the displacements, stresses, temperature, concentration, and chemical potential are obtained. Comparison was made between the results obtained in the presence and absence of diffusion. The results indicate that the effect of nonhomogeneity, rotation, magnetic field, relaxation time, and diffusion is very pronounced.
Electricity Load Forecasting Using Support Vector Regression with Memetic Algorithms
Authors: Hu Zhongyi , Bao Yukun , Xiong Tao
Published: December 2013

Electricity load forecasting is an important issue that is widely explored and examined in power systems operation literature and commercial transactions in electricity markets literature as well. Among the existing forecasting models, support vector regression (SVR) has gained much attention. Considering the performance of SVR highly depends on its parameters; this study proposed a firefly algorithm (FA) based memetic algorithm (FA‐MA) to appropriately determine the parameters of SVR forecasting model. In the proposed FA‐MA algorithm, the FA algorithm is applied to explore the solution space, and the pattern search is used to conduct individual learning and thus enhance the exploitation of FA. Experimental results confirm that the proposed FA‐MA based SVR model can not only yield more accurate forecasting results than the other four evolutionary algorithms based SVR models and three well‐known forecasting models but also outperform the hybrid algorithms in the related existing literature.
Cadmium-Induced Upregulation of Lipid Peroxidation and Reactive Oxygen Species Caused Physiological, Biochemical, and Ultrastructural Changes in Upland Cotton Seedlings
Authors: Khan Muhammad Daud , Mei Lei , Ali Basharat , Chen Yue , Cheng Xin , Zhu S. J.
Published: December 2013

Cadmium (Cd) toxicity was investigated in cotton cultivar (ZMS-49) using physiological, ultrastructural, and biochemical parameters. Biomass-based tolerance index decreased, and water contents increased at 500 μM Cd. Photosynthetic efficiency determined by chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic pigments declined under Cd stress. Cd contents were more in roots than shoots. A significant decrease in nutrient levels was found in roots and stem. A significant decrease in nutrient levels was found in roots and stems. In response to Cd stress, more MDA and ROS contents were produced in leaves than in other parts of the seedlings. Total soluble proteins were reduced in all parts except in roots at 500 μM Cd. Oxidative metabolism was higher in leaves than aerial parts of the plant. There were insignificant alterations in roots and leaves ultrastructures such as a little increase in nucleoli, vacuoles, starch granules, and plastoglobuli in Cd-imposed stressful conditions. Scanning micrographs at 500 μM Cd showed a reduced number of stomata as well as near absence of closed stomata. Cd depositions were located in cell wall, vacuoles, and intracellular spaces using TEM-EDX technology. Upregulation of oxidative metabolism, less ultrastructural modification, and Cd deposition in dead parts of cells show that ZMS-49 has genetic potential to resist Cd stress, which need to be explored.
The Economic Impact of Weight Regain
Authors: Sheppard Caroline E. , Lester Erica L. W. , Chuck Anderson W. , Birch Daniel W. , Karmali Shahzeer , de Gara Christopher J.
Published: December 2013

Background. Obesity is well known for being associated with significant economic repercussions. Bariatric surgery is the only evidence-based solution to this problem as well as a cost-effective method of addressing the concern. Numerous authors have calculated the cost effectiveness and cost savings of bariatric surgery; however, to date the economic impact of weight regain as a component of overall cost has not been addressed.Methods. The literature search was conducted to elucidate the direct costs of obesity and primary bariatric surgery, the rate of weight recidivism and surgical revision, and any costs therein.Results. The quoted cost of obesity in Canada was $2.0 billion–$6.7 billion in 2013 CAD. The median percentage of bariatric procedures that fail due to weight gain or insufficient weight loss is 20% (average:21.1%±10.1%, range: 5.2–39,n=10). Revision of primary surgeries on average ranges from 2.5% to 18.4%, and depending on the procedure accounts for an additional cost between $14,000 and $50,000 USD per patient.Discussion. There was a significant deficit of the literature pertaining to the cost of revision surgery as compared with primary bariatric surgery. As such, the cycle of weight recidivism and bariatric revisions has not as of yet been introduced into any previous cost analysis of bariatric surgery.
Traumatic Implantation: A Novel Aetiology in the Development of Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Authors: Humphrys Nicola , Downing Amy , Evans Luke , Sinclair Martin
Published: December 2013

Peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare intra-abdominal malignancy. Its aetiology has been thought to be due to either inhalation or ingestion of asbestos particles. We present a case of peritoneal mesothelioma developing as a result of a novel third route and the inoculation of fibres into the peritoneal cavity by penetrating trauma and direct transport. This case report highlights the important long term consequences of penetrating abdominal trauma and the need for vigilance in undertaking peritoneal toilet.
F-18 Labeled Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide Analogue in the PET Imaging of Colon Carcinoma in Nude Mice
Authors: Cheng Dengfeng , Liu Yuxia , Shen Hua , Pang Lifang , Yin Duanzhi , Wang Yongxian , Li Shanqun , Shi Hongcheng
Published: December 2013

As large amount of vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) receptors are expressed in various tumors and VIP-related diseases, radiolabeled VIP provides a potential PET imaging agent for VIP receptor. However, structural modification of VIP is required before being radiolabeled and used for VIP receptor imaging due to its poor in vivo stability. As a VIP analogue, [R8, 15, 21, L17]-VIP exhibited improved stability and receptor specificity in preliminary studies. In this study, F-18 labeled [R8,15,21, L17]-VIP was produced with the radiochemical yield being as high as33.6%±3%(decay-for-corrected,n=5) achieved within 100 min, a specific activity of 255 GBq/μmol, and a radiochemical purity as high as 99% as characterized by radioactive HPLC, TLC, and SDS-Page radioautography. A biodistribution study in normal mice also demonstrated fast elimination of F-18 labeled [R8,15,21, L17]-VIP in the blood, liver, and gastrointestinal tracts. A further micro-PET imaging study in C26 colon carcinoma bearing mice confirmed the high tumor specificity, with the tumor/muscle radioactivity uptake ratio being as high as 3.03 at 60 min following injection, and no apparent radioactivity concentration in the intestinal tracts. In addition, blocking experiment and Western Blot test further confirmed its potential in PET imaging of VIP receptor-positive tumor.
Performance Modeling for FPGAs: Extending the Roofline Model with High-Level Synthesis Tools
Authors: da Silva Bruno , Braeken An , D’Hollander Erik H. , Touhafi Abdellah
Published: December 2013

The potential of FPGAs as accelerators for high-performance computing applications is very large, but many factors are involved in their performance. The design for FPGAs and the selection of the proper optimizations when mapping computations to FPGAs lead to prohibitively long developing time. Alternatives are the high-level synthesis (HLS) tools, which promise a fast design space exploration due to design at high-level or analytical performance models which provide realistic performance expectations, potential impediments to performance, and optimization guidelines. In this paper we propose the combination of both, in order to construct a performance model for FPGAs which is able to visually condense all the helpful information for the designer. Our proposed model extends the roofline model, by considering the resource consumption and the parameters used in the HLS tools, to maximize the performance and the resource utilization within the area of the FPGA. The proposed model is applied to optimize the design exploration of a class of window-based image processing applications using two different HLS tools. The results show the accuracy
of the model as well as its flexibility to be combined with any HLS tool.
Electricity Usage Scheduling in Smart Building Environments Using Smart Devices
Authors: Lee Eunji , Bahn Hyokyung
Published: December 2013

With the recent advances in smart grid technologies as well as the increasing dissemination of smart meters, the electricity usage of every moment can be detected in modern smart building environments. Thus, the utility company adopts different price of electricity at each time slot considering the peak time. This paper presents a new electricity usage scheduling algorithm for smart buildings that adopts real‐time pricing of electricity. The proposed algorithm detects the change of electricity prices by making use of a smart device and changes the power mode of each electric device dynamically. Specifically, we formulate the electricity usage scheduling problem as a real‐time task scheduling problem and show that it is a complex search problem that has an exponential time complexity. An efficient heuristic based on genetic algorithms is performed on a smart device to cut down the huge searching space and find a reasonable schedule within a feasible time budget. Experimental results with various building conditions show that the proposed algorithm reduces the electricity charge of a smart building by 25.6% on average and up to 33.4%.
Older Adults Making End of Life Decisions: An Application of Roy's Adaptation Model
Authors: Zhang Weihua
Published: December 2013

Purpose. The purpose of this study was to identify variables that influenced completion of advanced directives in the context of adaptation from national data in older adults. Knowledge gained from this study would help us identify factors that might influence end of life discussions and shed light on strategies on effective communication on advance care planning.Design and Method. A model-testing design and path analysis were used to examine secondary data from 938 participants. Items were extracted from the data set to correspond to variables for this study. Scales were constructed and reliabilities were tested.Results. The final path model showed that physical impairment, self-rated health, continuing to work, and family structure had direct and indirect effects on completion of advanced directives. Five percent of the variance was accounted for by the path analysis.Conclusion. The variance accounted for by the model was small. This could have been due to the use of secondary data and limitations imposed for measurement. However, health care providers and families should explore patient’s perception of self-health as well as their family and work situation in order to strategize a motivational discussion on advance directive or end of life care planning.
History and Actual State of Non-HEU Fission-Based Mo-99 Production with Low-Performance Research Reactors
Authors: Dittrich S.
Published: December 2013

Fifty years ago, one of the worldwide first industrial production processes to produce fission-Mo-99 for medical use had been started at ZfK Rossendorf (now: HZDR, Germany). On the occasion of this anniversary, it is worth to mention that this original process (called LITEMOL now) together with its target concept used at that time can still be applied. LITEMOL can be adapted very easily to various research reactors and applied at each site, which maybe still of interest for very small-scale producers. Besides this original process, two further and actually proven processes are suitable as well and recommended for small-scale LEU fission Mo-99 production also. They are known under the names KSA/KSS COMPACT and ROMOL LITE and will be described below.
Strong Convergence of Iterative Algorithm for a New System of GeneralizedH·,·-η-Cocoercive Operator Inclusions in Banach Spaces
Authors: Alsulami Saud M. , Naraghirad Eskandar , Hussain Nawab
Published: December 2013

We introduce and study a new system of generalizedH·,·-η-cocoercive operator inclusions in Banach spaces. Using the resolvent operator technique associated withH·,·-η-cocoercive operators, we suggest and analyze a new generalized algorithm of nonlinear set-valued variational inclusions and establish strong convergence of iterative sequences produced by the method. We highlight the applicability of our results by examples in function spaces.
Tumour Thrombi in the Suprahepatic Inferior Vena Cava: The Cardiothoracic Surgeons’ View
Authors: Protopapas Aristotle D. , Ashrafian Hutan , Athanasiou Thanos
Published: December 2013

Background. Retroperitoneal tumours propagate intrathoracic caval tumour thrombi (ICTT) of which we consider two subgroups: ICTT-III (extracardiac) and ICTT-IV (intracardiac). Methods. Case series review. Results. 29 series with 784 patients, 453 with extracardiac and 331 with intracardiac ICTT. Average age was 59 years. 98% of the tumours were RCC, 1% adrenal and Wilms’ tumours, and 1% transitional cell carcinomas. The prevalent incision was rooftop with or without sternotomy. Mortality was 10% (5% for ICTT-III, 15% for ICTT-IV). Morbidity was 56% (36% for ICTT-III, 64% for ICTT-IV) and reoperation for bleeding was the commonest complication (14%). Mean Blood loss was 2.6 litres for ICTT-III and 3.7 litres for ICTT-IV. Mean blood product use was 2.4 litres for ICTT-III and 3.5 litres for ICTT-IV. Operative and anaesthetic times exceeded 5 hours. Hospital stay averaged 13 days. Variations in perioperative care included preoperative embolisation, perioperative transoesophageal echo, surgical incisions, and extracorporeal circulation. Brief Summary. Surgery for ICTT has high transfusion, operating/anaesthetic time, and in-hospital stay requirements, and intracardiac ICTT also attract higher risk. Preoperative tumour embolisation is controversial. The cardiothoracic team offers proactive optimisation of blood loss and preemptive management of intracardiac thrombus impaction: we should always be involved in the management the ICTT.
Robust Human Machine Interface Based on Head Movements Applied to Assistive Robotics
Authors: Perez Elisa , López Natalia , Orosco Eugenio , Soria Carlos , Mut Vicente , Freire-Bastos Teodiano
Published: December 2013

This paper presents an interface that uses two different sensing techniques and combines both results through a fusion process to obtain the minimum‐variance estimator of the orientation of the user’s head. Sensing techniques of the interface are based on an inertial sensor and artificial vision. The orientation of the user’s head is used to steer the navigation of a robotic wheelchair. Also, a control algorithm for assistive technology system is presented. The system is evaluated by four individuals with severe motors disability and a quantitative index was developed, in order to objectively evaluate the performance. The results obtained are promising since most users could perform the proposed tasks with the robotic wheelchair.
Phenolic Profile of Dark‐Grown and Photoperiod‐Exposed Hypericum perforatum L. Hairy Root Cultures
Authors: Tusevski Oliver , Petreska Stanoeva Jasmina , Stefova Marina , Simic Sonja Gadzovska
Published: December 2013

Hypericum perforatum L. is a medicinal plant considered as an important natural source of secondary metabolites with a wide range of pharmacological attributes. Hairy roots (HR) were induced from root segments of in vitro grown seedlings from H. perforatum after cocultivation with Agrobacterium rhizogenes A4. Investigations have been made to study the production of phenolic compounds in dark‐grown (HR1) and photoperiod‐exposed (HR2) cultures. The chromatographic analysis of phenolic acids, flavonols, flavan‐3‐ols, and xanthones revealed marked differences between HR1 and HR2 cultures. The production of quinic acid, kaempferol, and seven identified xanthones was increased in HR2. Moreover, HR2 showed a capability for de novo biosynthesis of two phenolic acids (3‐p‐coumaroylquinic acid and 3‐feruloylquinic acid), three flavonol glycosides (kaempferol hexoside, hyperoside, and quercetin acetylglycoside), and five xanthones (tetrahydroxy‐one‐methoxyxanthone, 1,3,5‐trihydroxy‐6‐methoxyxanthone, 1,3,5,6‐tetrahydroxy‐2‐prenylxanthone, paxanthone, and banaxanthone E). On the other side, HR1 cultures were better producers of flavan‐3‐ols (catechin, epicatechin, and proanthocyanidin dimers) than HR2. This is the first comparative study on phenolic profile of H. perforatum HR cultures grown under dark and photoperiod conditions.
Antibacterial Characteristics of Lotus-Type Porous Copper
Authors: Lee Jin-Soo , Lee Yun-Soo , Kim Mok-Soon , Hyun Soong-Keun , Kang Chang-Ho , So Jae-Seong , Yoon Eui-Han
Published: December 2013

Lotus-type porous copper with long cylindrical pores aligned parallel to the solidification direction was studied for use as an antibacterial material. The antibacterial performance of lotus-type porous copper samples with different specific surface areas againstEscherichia coliwas investigated. The results confirmed that the antibacterial effect gradually increased with specific surface area. The correlation between the pore structure of lotus-type porous metals and their antibacterial effect was also analyzed in detail. Our research proposes a new application of these metals in the water purifying system.
The Role of the Intraplaque Vitamin D System in Atherogenesis
Authors: Carbone Federico , Montecucco Fabrizio
Published: December 2013

Vitamin D has been shown to play critical activities in several physiological pathways not involving the calcium/phosphorus homeostasis. The ubiquitous distribution of the vitamin D receptor that is expressed in a variety of human and mouse tissues has strongly supported research on these “nonclassical” activities of vitamin D. On the other hand, the recent discovery of the expression also for vitamin D-related enzymes (such as 25-hydroxyvitamin D-1α-hydroxylase and the catabolic enzyme 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D-24-hydroxylase) in several tissues suggested that the vitamin D system is more complex than previously shown and it may act within tissues through autocrine and paracrine pathways. This updated model of vitamin D axis within peripheral tissues has been particularly investigated in atherosclerotic pathophysiology. This review aims at updating the role of the local vitamin D within atherosclerotic plaques, providing an overview of both intracellular mechanisms and cell-to-cell interactions. In addition, clinical findings about the potential causal relationship between vitamin D deficiency and atherogenesis will be analysed and discussed.
FBG-Based Creep Analysis of GFRP Materials Embedded in Concrete
Authors: Li Guo-Wei , Hong Cheng-Yu , Dai Jian , Yu Liang , Zhou Wan-Huan
Published: December 2013

This paper presents a typical study regarding the creep interaction behavior between prestressed glass fiber reinforced polymer (GFRP) bar and concrete when this GFRP bar is subjected to a constant external pullout force. A number of optical fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors were mounted on GFRP bar surface by using an innovative installation method to measure strain distributions. Test results indicate that the complicated interaction at GFRP bar-concrete interface can be evaluated using a transitional factor. Variation trends of this transitional factor indicate three typical zones characterized by different strain/stress variation trends of the GFRP bar when prestress values are sustained at specific levels. These three typical zones include stress release zone, stress transition zone, and continuous tension zone. Test results also suggest that the instant stress loss at the interaction interface between concrete and GFRP bar was quite limited (less than 5%) in present test. Contributed proportion of each GFRP bar section was obtained to represent the creep behavior of the GFRP bar embedded in concrete. This investigation improved the understanding of the short-term interaction behavior between prestressed GFRP bar and concrete.
An Unusual Case of Bilateral Vitreous Haemorrhage following Snake Bite
Authors: Bhandari Vipul , Lohia Meenal
Published: December 2013

A-45-year-old man presented to us with diminution of vision in both eye following snake bite. On examination vision in the right eye (RE) was 6/36 and vision in left eye (LE) was hand movement positive and fundus examination revealed a subhyloid haemorrhage, left eye showed vitreous haemorrhage. Patient was advised bed rest, vitamin C tablets and oral steroids.
Recent Advances on Recursive Filtering and Sliding Mode Design for Networked Nonlinear Stochastic Systems: A Survey
Authors: Hu Jun , Wang Zidong , Dong Hongli , Gao Huijun
Published: December 2013

Some recent advances on the recursive filtering and sliding mode design problems for nonlinear stochastic systems with network-induced phenomena are surveyed. The network-induced phenomena under consideration mainly include missing measurements, fading measurements, signal quantization, probabilistic sensor delays, sensor saturations, randomly occurring nonlinearities, and randomly occurring uncertainties. With respect to these network-induced phenomena, the developments on filtering and sliding mode design problems are systematically reviewed. In particular, concerning the network-induced phenomena, some recent results on the recursive filtering for time-varying nonlinear stochastic systems and sliding mode design for time-invariant nonlinear stochastic systems are given, respectively. Finally, conclusions are proposed and some potential future research works are pointed out.
Steady Natural Convection of Non-Newtonian Power-Law Fluid in a Trapezoidal Enclosure
Authors: Sojoudi Atta , Saha Suvash C. , Gu Y. T. , Hossain M. A.
Published: December 2013

Numerical investigation of free convection heat transfer in a differentially heated trapezoidal cavity filled with non-Newtonian Power-law fluid has been performed in this study. The left inclined surface is uniformly heated whereas the right inclined surface is maintained as uniformly cooled. The top and bottom surfaces are kept adiabatic with initially quiescent fluid inside the enclosure. Finite-volume-based commercial software FLUENT 14.5 is used to solve the governing equations. Dependency of various flow parameters of fluid flow and heat transfer is analyzed including Rayleigh number (Ra) ranging from 105 to 107, Prandtl number (Pr) from 100 to 10,000, and power-law index ( n) from 0.6 to 1.4. Outcomes have been reported in terms of isotherms, streamlines, and local Nusselt number for various Ra, Pr, n, and inclined angles. Grid sensitivity analysis is performed and numerically obtained results have been compared with those results available in the literature and were in good agreement.
Antimicrobial Activity, Growth Inhibition of Human Tumour Cell Lines, and Phytochemical Characterization of the Hydromethanolic Extract Obtained fromSapindus saponariaL. Aerial Parts
Authors: Rashed Khaled N. , Ćirić Ana , Glamočlija Jasmina , Calhelha Ricardo C. , Ferreira Isabel C. F. R. , Soković Marina
Published: December 2013

The hydromethanolic extract ofSapindus saponariaL. aerial parts was investigated for antimicrobial activity (against several Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and fungi) and capacity to inhibit the growth of different human tumor cell lines as also nontumor liver cells. The evaluated extract was further characterized in terms of phytochemicals using UV,1H-NMR,13C-NMR, and MS spectroscopic tools. The extract has shown a significant antimicrobial activity on all tested bacterial and fungal species. The best activity was achieved againstBacillus cereusandStaphylococcus aureusamong bacteria and against all threePenicilliumspecies tested. It also revealed cytotoxicity against human colon (HCT-15), cervical (HeLa), breast (MCF-7), and lung (NCI-H460) carcinoma cell lines, with HeLa being the most susceptible tumor cell line. The extract was not toxic for nontumor liver cells. Chromatographic separation of the extract resulted in the isolation and identification of stigmasterol, oleanolic acid, luteolin, luteolin 8-C-β-glucoside (orientin), luteolin 6-C-β-glucoside (isoorientin), luteolin 7-O-β-glucuronide, and rutin. The results of the present findings may be useful for the discovery of novel antitumor and antimicrobial agents from plant origin.
Neuropsychological Functions of μ- and δ-Opioid Systems
Authors: Polunina Anna G. , Bryun Evgeny A.
Published: December 2013

Brain opioid innervation is involved in many pathophysiological processes related to drug addiction. The main idea of the present review is that μ-/δ-opioid innervation is an intrinsic component of the motor/approach behavior network, which is activated synergetically with dopaminergic mesocorticolimbic network. Contribution of opioid innervation to the motor/approach behavior processing includes generation of positive emotions and inhibition of pain and stress reactions in order that the individual would be able to reach the vital goal. We cite the neuroanatomical data which showed that motor subcortical nuclei contain the most abundant opioid innervation and its activation is an obligatory component of positive emotions. In the majority of life situations, motor/approach behavior network concomitantly activates pain/stress control opioid network. Intensive cognitive activity induces activation of opioid innervation as well, and both enhancing and impairing effects of opioid agonists on cognitive functioning were demonstrated. Overall, the functioning of endogenous opioid networks may be summarized as following: NO physical/cognitive activity = NO positive emotions plus NO pain/stress control. We suppose that contemporary findings concerning neuropsychological functions of endogenous opioid system explain many controversial issues in neuropsychiatric conditions predisposing to drug addiction and neurological mechanisms of opioid addiction.
Impact of Sleep Respiratory Disorders on Endothelial Function in Children
Authors: Brunetti Luigia , Francavilla Ruggiero , Scicchitano Pietro , Tranchino Valentina , Loscialpo Maria , Gesualdo Michele , Zito Annapaola , Fornarelli Fara , Sassara Marco , Giordano Paola , Miniello Vito Leonardo , Ciccone Marco Matteo
Published: December 2013

Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) in children can induce endothelial dysfunction, a well‐known early marker of atherosclerosis. The study aimed to evaluate a link among endothelial function (measured by flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD)), obesity (evaluated by body mass index (BMI)), and sleep disordered breathing (SDB), assessed with apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI), in a paediatric population. We demonstrated that our little OSAS patients showed an impaired endothelial function as compared to controls. In particular, the higher the AHI, the worst the FMD values and thus the endothelial function. Although the population sample is small, this study demonstrated that OSAS could impair endothelial function and worsen cardiovascular risk profile since childhood.
Vermicomposting: Tool for Sustainable Ruminant Manure Management
Authors: Nasiru A. , Ismail N. , Ibrahim M. H.
Published: December 2013

Ruminants are important sources of meat and milk. Their production is associated with manure excretion. Estimates of over 3,900,000 million metric tonnes of manure are produced daily from ruminants worldwide. Storage and spread of this waste on land pose health risks and environmental problems. Efficient and sustainable way of handling ruminant manure is required. Composting and vermicomposting are considered two of the best techniques for solid biomass waste management. This paper presents vermicomposting as an effective tool for ruminant manure management. Vermicomposting is a mesophilic biooxidation and stabilisation process of organic materials that involves the joint action of earthworm and microorganism. Compared with composting, vermicomposting has higher rate of stabilisation and it is greatly modifying its physical and biochemical properties, with low C : N ratio and homogenous end product. It is also costeffective and ecofriendly waste management. Due to its innate biological, biochemical and physicochemical properties, vermicomposting can be used to promote sustainable ruminant manure management. Vermicomposts are excellent sources of biofertiliser and their addition improves the physiochemical and biological properties of agricultural soils. In addition, earthworms from the vermicomposting can be used as source of protein to fishes and monogastric animals. Vermicompost can also be used as raw materials for bioindustries.
Epididymoorchitis as the First Finding in Patients with Brucellosis
Authors: Karaköse Ayhan , Yuksel Mehmet Bilgehan , Aydoğdu Özgü , Hamidi Aziz Ahmad
Published: December 2013

Purpose. Acute scrotal pain as the first symptom of brucellosis is rarely observed. We aimed to evaluate the data of male patients with brucellosis and epididymoorchitis as the initial diagnosis.Material and Methods. The data of seven patients presented with testicular pain, hyperemia, swelling, and increased fever were reviewed. Concomitant focal diseases as well as clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings were retrospectively evaluated.Results. The mean age of the patients was 22.28 ± 7.78 (16–35) years. All patients presented with scrotal pain, swelling, and increased sweating. Additional findings included fever, asthenia, arthralgia, dysuria, shiver and rash, weight loss, and vomiting in 6, 5, 4, 4, 3, 2, and 1 patient, respectively. In all of 7 patients, the agglutination tests of Rose-Bengal and Wright were positive. Coombs test was positive only in 3 patients. The patients underwent antibiotic and conservative treatment. No relapse was observed following the treatment.Conclusion. In endemic regions, epididymoorchitis caused by brucellosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of patients presenting with acute scrotal pain. Clinical and serological findings are sufficient for the diagnosis. Conservative management combined with antibiotic therapy is adequate for managing brucellar epididymoorchitis.
The PotentIn VitroSkin Permeation of Archaeosome Made from Lipids Extracted ofSulfolobus acidocaldarius
Authors: Moghimipour Eskandar , Kargar Mohammad , Ramezani Zahra , Handali Somayeh
Published: December 2013

Archaeosomes are a new generation of liposomes that exhibit higher stabilities under different conditions, such as high temperatures, alkaline or acidic pH, and presence of bile salts in comparison with liposomes, and can be used in biotechnology including drug, gene, and vaccine delivery. The objective of this study was to prepare archaeosomes using lipid extracted fromSulfolobus acidocaldariusand evaluate their physicochemical properties. The lipids were extracted fromS. acidocaldariusand assayed by High Performance Thin-Layer Chromatography (HPTLC). Archaeosomes were prepared using film method and methylene blue was used as drug model. They were characterized for their vesicle size and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC) was used to investigate changes in their thermal behavior. The released amount of methylene blue was determined using a dialysis membrane and rat skin. HPTLC analysis of the extracted lipids showed that glycerol ether may be the major lipid with more than 78 percent probability. Results of particle size determination showed a mean size of 158.33 nm and the results of DSC indicated the possible interaction of methylene blue with lipids during the preparation of archaeosome. The addition of cholesterol significantly improved the encapsulation of methylene blue in the archaeosome so that the encapsulation efficiency was 61.66 ± 2.88%. The result ofin vitroskin permeation showed that methylene blue could pass through skin model according to Peppas model and there was about 41.66% release after 6 h, whereas no release was observed through dialysis membrane. According to the results of the study, it is concluded that archaeosome may be successfully used as drug delivery system.
Antiatherosclerotic Potential of Clopidogrel: Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Approaches
Authors: Hadi Najah R. , Mohammad Bassim I. , Ajeena Ihsan M. , Sahib Hussam H.
Published: December 2013

Background. Atherosclerosis is characterized by endothelial dysfunction, vascular inflammation, and the buildup of lipids, cholesterol, calcium, and cellular debris within the intima of the walls of large and medium size arteries.Objective. To evaluate the effect of clopidogrel on atherosclerosis progression.Materials and Methods. A total of 28 local domestic rabbits were assigned to four groups: normal control, atherogenic control, vehicle control, and clopidogrel treated. Serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, HDL-C, plasma high sensitive C-reactive protein (hsCRP), plasma malondialdehyde (MDA), and plasma reduced glutathione (GSH) were measured at the end of the experiment. Immunohistochemical of aortic atherosclerotic changes were also performed.Results. There was no statistically significant difference between atherogenic control group and vehicle group. Levels of lipid profile, atherogenic index, hsCRP, and MDA are increased while GSH levels were decreased in animals on atherogenic diet. Immunohistochemical analysis showed that aortic expressions of VCAM-1, MCP-1, TNF-α, and IL-17A were significantly increased in atherogenic control group. Histopathologic finding showed that animals on atherogenic diet have significant atherosclerotic lesion. Compared to atherogenic control group clopidogrel do not have significant effect on lipid profile. Clopidogrel significantly reduces hsCRP and MDA levels and increases GSH level. Furthermore, clopidogrel treatment significantly reduced aortic expressions parameters and the histopathologic examination of the aortic arch showed a significant reduction of atherosclerotic lesion.Conclusions. This study outlines how clopidogrel reduces lipid peroxidation, systemic inflammation, and aortic expression of inflammatory markers and hence reduces the progression of atherosclerosis.
Some New Results on Distance k-Domination in Graphs
Authors: Vaidya Samir K. , Kothari Nirang J.
Published: December 2013

We determine the distance k-domination number for the total graph, shadow graph, and middle graph of path Pn.
Multiobjective Stochastic Programming for Mixed Integer Vendor Selection Problem Using Artificial Bee Colony Algorithm
Authors: Ekhtiari Mostafa , Poursafary Shahab
Published: December 2013

It has been always critical and inevitable to select and assess the appropriate and efficient vendors for the companies such that all the aspects and factors leading to the importance of the select process should be considered. This paper studies the process of selecting the vendors simultaneously in three aspects of multiple criteria, random factors, and reaching efficient solutions with the objective of improvement. Thus, selecting the vendors is introduced in the form of a mixed integer multiobjective stochastic problem and for the first time it is converted by CCGC (min-max) model to a mixed integer nonlinear single objective deterministic problem. As the converted problem is nonlinear and solving it in large scale will be time-consuming then the artificial bee colony (ABC) algorithm is used to solve it. Also, in order to better understand ABC efficiency, a comparison is performed between this algorithm and the particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the imperialist competitive algorithm (ICA) and Lingo software output. The results obtained from a real example show that ABC offers more efficient solutions to the problem solving in large scale and PSO spends less time to solve the same problem.
Seasonal Variation of the Canopy Structure Parameters and Its Correlation with Yield‐Related Traits in Sugarcane
Authors: Luo Jun , Que Youxiong , Zhang Hua , Xu Liping
Published: December 2013

Population structure determines sugarcane yield, of which canopy structure is a key component. To fully understand the relations between sugarcane yield and parameters of the canopy structure, 17 sugarcane varieties were investigated at five growth stages. The results indicated that there were significant differences between characterized parameters among sugarcane populations at different growth stages. During sugarcane growth after planting, leaf area index (LAI) and leaf distribution (LD) increased, while transmission coefficient for diffuse radiation (TD), mean foliage inclination angle (MFIA), transmission coefficient for solar beam radiation penetration (TR), and extinction coefficient (K) decreased. Significant negative correlations were found between sugarcane yield and MFIA, TD, TR, and K at the early elongation stage, while a significant positive correlation between sugarcane yield and LD was found at the same stage. A regression for sugarcane yield, with relative error of yield fitting less than 10%, was successfully established: sugarcane yield = 2380.12 + 46.25 × LD − 491.82 × LAI + 1.36 × MFIA + 614.91 × TD − 1908.05 × TR − 182.53 ×  K + 1281.75 × LD − 1.35 × MFIA + 831.2 × TR − 407.8 ×  K + 8.21 × MFIA − 834.50 × TD − 1695.49 ×  K  (R2 = 0.94**).
Generalized Outer Synchronization between Complex Networks with Unknown Parameters
Authors: Ning Di , Wu Xiaoqun , Lu Jun-an , Feng Hui
Published: December 2013

As is well known, complex networks are ubiquitous in the real world. One network always behaves differently from but still coexists in balance with others. This phenomenon of harmonious coexistence between different networks can be termed as “generalized outer synchronization (GOS).” This paper investigates GOS between two different complex dynamical networks with unknown parameters according to two different methods. When the exact functional relations between the two networks are previously known, a sufficient criterion for GOS is derived based on Barbalat's lemma. If the functional relations are not known, the auxiliary-system method is employed and a sufficient criterion for GOS is derived. Numerical simulations are further provided to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the theoretical results.
Myolipoma of Mesentery: A Case Report
Authors: Kim Hyun Sung , Kim Suk , Kim Kyungbin , Choi Kyung Un , Kim Joo Youn
Published: December 2013

Myolipomas are very rare benign lipomatous soft tissue tumors which are usually located in retroperitoneum, abdominal and pelvic cavity, and the abdominal wall. They can be diagnosed histologically by the presence of irregularly admixed mature adipose tissue and smooth muscle fibers. The correct diagnosis of myolipoma is important, because it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of fat-containing lesions of the soft tissue and should follow a benign clinical course despite its frequently large size and deep location. We report here a case of myolipoma arising in the mesentery of the jejunum.
Carbofuran Induced Oxidative Stress in Rat Heart: Ameliorative Effect of Vitamin C
Authors: Jaiswal Sunil Kumar , Siddiqi Nikhat J. , Sharma B.
Published: December 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of carbofuran on the levels of certain biomarkers in heart of rat exposed to sublethal concentrations of pesticide for 30 days after each interval of 24 h. The ameliorative effect of vitamin C by pretreatment of rats was also monitored. The results indicated that the activities of acetylcholinesterase and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) decreased significantly in rat heart tissues, the extent of inhibition being concentration dependent. In contrast, the level of LDH increased in serum. The levels of malondialdehyde, total thiols, and glutathione were significantly elevated whereas the activities of antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione-S-transferase were remarkably decreased in rat heart tissues. The serum concentrations of cholesterol increased by 47 and 77% and high density lipids decreased by 35 and 64%, respectively, due to exposure to 5 and 10% LD50of carbofuran. The prior treatment of rats with vitamin C (100 mg kg−1body weight) exerted significant ameliorative effect. The recovery was higher at low carbofuran concentration (5%) tested. The results indicated that carbofuran induced oxidative stress and caused damage to cardiac tissues, which could be recovered by prior application of vitamin C.
A Comparison of Hemoglobin A2 Levels in Untreated and Treated Groups of HIV Patients on ART Including Zidovudine
Authors: Nigam Jitendra Singh , Bharti Jyotsna Naresh , Kumar Dinker , Sharma Ankit
Published: December 2013

Objective. To assess the level of haemoglobin A2 in HIV patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) including zidovudine with untreated HIV patients. Material and Methods. The study was a case control study. A total of 185 patients were included in the study; the case group included 125 HIV patients who were on antiretroviral therapy (ART) including zidovudine and 60 were in the control group who were not receiving ART. The high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was done and hemoglobin A2 level was observed; value more than 3.5% was considered significant. The Hb A2 percentages of HIV patients were compared with those of control using an unpaired t-test. Results. The mean of Hb A2 in case group was 3.462% (SD 0.675) and in control group it was 2.815% (SD0.246). The higher Hb A2 value was seen in significant number of treated patients than control group (P<0.0001). Conclusion. The clinicians, pathologists, haematologists, and genetic counsellors should be aware of effects of nutritional anaemia and ART on Hb A2 to reduce the chances of misdiagnosis of β-thalassaemia especially in developing countries and for centres for antenatal screening.
Association of Metabolic Syndrome and Inflammation with Cognitive Decline in Adults Aged 60 Years and Older: Findings from a National Health Survey in the United States
Authors: Liu Zuolu , Lippa Carol F.
Published: December 2013

Objectives. We aimed to test the hypothesis that metabolic syndrome (MetS) is significantly associated with cognitive decline (CoD) in elderly adults and further assess whether MetS and inflammation have a significant joint effect on CoD. Methods. Data (n=2975) from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (1999–2002) in participants aged ≥60 years who had Digit Symbol Substitution Tests (DSS: a standard measure of cognitive function) were studied. CoD was defined as those in the lowest quintile of DSS score. MetS was defined as having ≥3 of 5 MetS traits (large waist circumference (WC), high blood pressure (BP), elevated glucose, triglycerides, and decreased high density lipoprotein cholesterol). Results. Of 2975 participants, the prevalence of CoD (DSS score <25) was 12.1%. After adjusting covariates, individual large WC, high BP, elevated glucose level, and MetS were significantly associated with CoD in logistic regression models (P<0.001). There was a significant dose-response relationship between an increased number of MetS traits and CoD (P<0.001). A significant joint effect of MetS and CRP on the odds of CoD was observed. Conclusion. The study, using a nationally representative sample, extended previous studies by highlighting a significant MetS-CoD relationship and a joint effect of MetS and CRP on CoD. These novel findings add to our understanding of the association of neurometabolic disorders and cognition and have implications that may be relevant to primary care practice.
Common Fixed Points for Multivalued Mappings in Complex Valued Metric Spaces with Applications
Authors: Ahmad Jamshaid , Klin-Eam Chakkrid , Azam Akbar
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we introduce the notion of multivalued contractive mappings in complex valued metric space and prove common fixed point theorems for two multivalued contractive mappings in complex valued metric spaces without using the notion of continuity. Our results improve and extend the results of Azam et al. (2011).
Effect of Ag‐Nanoparticles Doped in Polyvinyl Alcohol on the Structural and Optical Properties of PVA Films
Authors: Ghanipour Mahshad , Dorranian Davoud
Published: December 2013

The effect of silver nanoparticles doped in PVA on the structural and optical properties of composite films is studied experimentally. Samples are PVA films of 0.14 mm thickness doped with different sizes and concentrations of silver nanoparticles. Structural properties are studied using X‐ray diffraction and FTIR spectrum. Using the reflectance and transmittance of samples, the effect of doped nanoparticles and their concentration on optical parameters of PVA films include absorption coefficient, optical bandgap energy, complex refractive index, complex dielectric function, complex optical conductivity, and relaxation time is extracted and discussed. The dispersion of the refractive index of films in terms of the single oscillator Wemple‐DiDomenico (WD) model is investigated and the dispersion parameters are calculated. Results show that by doping silver nanoparticles in PVA, number of Bragg’s planes in the structure of polymer and its crystallinity are increased noticeably. Ag–O bonds are formed in the films and the bandgap energy of samples is decreased. Calculations based on WD model confirm that by doping nanoparticles, the anion strength of PVA as a dielectric medium is decreased.
The Culture-Transmission Motive in Minorities: An Online Survey of Adolescents and Young Adults with an Immigrant Background in Germany
Authors: Mchitarjan Irina , Reisenzein Rainer
Published: December 2013

Central assumptions of a theory of cultural transmission in minorities proposed by the authors were tested in an online survey of adolescents and young adults with Russian and Turkish immigrant background in Germany (N=55). The results support most hypotheses. In particular, evidence was obtained for the existence of the culture-transmission motive postulated by the theory: the appreciation of the culture of origin and the desire to maintain it and pass it on to the next generation. In addition, evidence was obtained for the anchoring of the culture-transmission motive in more basic motives, its relative stability, and its motivating function for pedagogical activities and wishes regarding cultural transmission, including the wish for culture-specific education in public schools.