bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Recycled Neonatal Incubators in Nigeria: A 6-Year Follow-Up Study
Authors: Amadi Hippolite Onyejiaka , Azubuike Jonathan C. , Etawo Uriah S. , Offiong Uduak R. , Ezeaka Chinyere , Olateju Eyinade , Adimora Gilbert N. , Osibogun Akin , Ibeziako Ngozi , Iroha Edna O. , Dutse Abdulhameed I. , Chukwu Christian O. , Okpere Eugene E. , Kawuwa Mohammed B. , El-Nafaty Aliyu U. , Kuranga Sulyman A. , Mokuolu Olugbenga Ayodeji
Published: February 2011

Nigeria has a record of high newborn mortality as an estimated 778 babies die daily, accounting for a ratio of 48 deaths per 1000 live births. The aim of this paper was to show how a deteriorating neonatal delivery system in Nigeria may have, in part, been improved by the application of a novel recycled incubator technique (RIT). Retrospective assessment of clinical, technical, and human factors in 15 Nigerian neonatal centres was carried out to investigate how the application of RIT impacted these factors. Pre-RIT and post-RIT neonatal mortalities were compared by studying case files. Effect on neonatal nursing was studied through questionnaires that were completed by 79 nurses from 9 centres across the country. Technical performance was assessed based on 10-indices scores from clinicians and nurses. The results showed an increase in neonatal survival, nursing enthusiasm, and practice confidence. Appropriately recycled incubators are good substitutes to the less affordable modern incubators in boosting neonatal practice outcome in low-income countries.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging in a Patient with a Dual Chamber Pacemaker
Authors: Millar Lynne Martina , Robinson Andrew George , O'Flaherty Maurice Thomas , Eames Niall , Johnston Nicola , Heyburn Gary
Published: February 2011

Having a pacemaker has been seen an absolute contraindication to having an MRI scan. This has become increasingly difficult in clinical practice as insertion of pacemakers and implantable cardiac defibrillators is at an all time high. Here we outline a case where a 71-year-old male patient with a permanent pacemaker needed to have an MRI scan to ascertain the aetiology of his condition and help guide further management. Given this clinical dilemma, an emergency clinical ethics consultation was arranged. As a result the patient underwent an MRI scan safely under controlled conditions with a consultant cardiologist and radiologist present. The results of the MRI scan were then able to tailor further treatment. This case highlights that in certain conditions an MRI can be performed in patients with permanent pacemakers and outlines the role of clinical ethics committees in complex medical decision making.
Constraint Consensus Methods for Finding Interior Feasible Points in Second‐Order Cones
Authors: Weigandt Anna , Tuthill Kaitlyn , Jibrin Shafiu
Published: February 2011

Optimization problems with second‐order cone constraints (SOCs) can be solved efficiently
by interior point methods. In order for some of these methods to get started or
to converge faster, it is important to have an initial feasible point or near‐feasible point.
In this paper, we study and apply Chinneck′s Original constraint consensus method and
DBmax constraint consensus method to find near‐feasible points for systems of SOCs.
We also develop and implement a new backtracking‐like line search technique on these
methods that attempts to increase the length of the consensus vector, at each iteration,
with the goal of finding interior feasible points. Our numerical results indicate that the
new methods are effective in finding interior feasible points for SOCs.
Pathobiology of Anaplastic Large Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Piccaluga Pier Paolo , Gazzola Anna , Mannu Claudia , Agostinelli Claudio , Bacci Francesco , Sabattini Elena , Sagramoso Carlo , Piva Roberto , Roncolato Fernando , Inghirami Giorgio , Pileri Stefano A.
Published: February 2011

The authors revise the concept of anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) in the light of the recently updated WHO classification of Tumors of Hematopoietic and Lymphoid Tissues both on biological and clinical grounds. The main histological findings are illustrated with special reference to the cytological spectrum that is indeed characteristic of the tumor. The phenotype is reported in detail: the expression of the ALK protein as well as the chromosomal abnormalities is discussed with their potential pathogenetic implications. The clinical features of ALCL are presented by underlining the difference in terms of response to therapy and survival between the ALK-positive and ALK-negative forms. Finally, the biological rationale for potential innovative targeted therapies is presented.
Nontrivial Solution for a Nonlocal Elliptic Transmission Problem in Variable Exponent Sobolev Spaces
Authors: Cekic Bilal , Mashiyev Rabil A.
Published: February 2011

In this paper, by means of adequate variational techniques and the theory of the variable
exponent Sobolev spaces, we show the existence of nontrivial solution for a transmission problem given by a system of two nonlinear elliptic equations of p(x)‐Kirchhoff type with nonstandard growth condition.
SiGe HBTs Optimization for Wireless Power Amplifier Applications
Authors: Mans Pierre-Marie , Jouan Sebastien , Fregonese Sebastien , Vandelle Benoit , Pache Denis , Arnaud Caroline , Maneux Cristell , Zimmer Thomas
Published: February 2011

This paper deals with SiGe HBTs optimization for power amplifier applications dedicated to wireless communications. In this work, we investigate thefT-BVCEOtradeoff by various collector optimization schemes such as epilayer thickness and dopant concentration, and SIC and CAP characteristics. Furthermore, a new trapezoidal base Germanium (Ge) profile is proposed. Thanks to this profile, precise control of Ge content at the metallurgical emitter-base junction is obtained. Gain stability is obtained for a wide range of temperatures through tuning the emitter-base junction Ge percent. Finally, a comprehensive investigation of Ge introduction into the collector (backside Ge profile) is conducted in order to improve thefTvalues at high injection levels.
Primordial Magnetic Field Effects on the CMB and Large‐Scale Structure
Authors: Yamazaki Dai G. , Ichiki Kiyotomo , Kajino Toshitaka , Mathews Grant J.
Published: February 2011

Magnetic fields are everywhere in nature, and they play an important role in every astronomical environment which involves the formation of plasma and currents. It is natural therefore to suppose that magnetic fields could be present in the turbulent high‐temperature environment of the big bang. Such a primordial magnetic field (PMF) would be expected to manifest itself in the cosmic microwave background (CMB) temperature and polarization anisotropies, and also in the formation of large‐scale structure. In this paper, we summarize the theoretical framework which we have developed to calculate the PMF power spectrum to high precision. Using this formulation, we summarize calculations of the effects of a PMF which take accurate quantitative account of the time evolution of the cutoff scale. We review the constructed numerical program, which is without approximation, and an improvement over the approach used in a number of previous works for studying the effect of the PMF on the cosmological perturbations. We demonstrate how the PMF is an important cosmological physical process on small scales. We also summarize the current constraints on the PMF amplitudeBλand the power spectral indexnBwhich have been deduced from the available CMB observational data by using our computational framework.
Effect of Carboxylic Functional Group Functionalized on Carbon Nanotubes Surface on the Removal of Lead from Water
Authors: Atieh Muataz Ali , Bakather Omer Yehya , Al-Tawbini Bassam , Bukhari Alaadin A. , Abuilaiwi Faraj Ahmad , Fettouhi Mohamed B.
Published: February 2011

The adsorption mechanism of the removal of lead from water by using carboxylic functional group (COOH) functionalized on the surface of carbon nanotubes was investigated. Four independent variables including pH, CNTs dosage, contact time, and agitation speed were carried out to determine the influence of these parameters on the adsorption capacity of the lead from water. The morphology of the synthesized multiwall carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) was characterized by using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in order to measure the diameter and the length of the CNTs. The diameters of the carbon nanotubes were varied from 20 to 40 nm with average diameter at 24 nm and 10 micrometer in length. Results of the study showed that 100% of lead was removed by using COOH‐MCNTs at pH 7, 150 rpm, and 2 hours. These high removal efficiencies were likely attributed to the strong affinity of lead to the physical and chemical properties of the CNTs. The adsorption isotherms plots were well fitted with experimental data.
A New Subclass of Salagean‐Type Harmonic Univalent Functions
Authors: Al-Shaqsi Khalifa , Darus Maslina , Fadipe-Joseph Olubunmi Abidemi
Published: February 2011

We define and investigate a new subclass of Salagean‐type
harmonic univalent functions. We obtain coefficient conditions, extreme points,
distortion bounds, convolution, and convex combination for the above subclass of
harmonic functions.
Large Peripheral Osteoma of the Mandible: A Case Report
Authors: Bulut Emel , Acikgoz Aydan , Ozan Bora , Gunhan Omer
Published: February 2011

Osteomas are benign, slow-growing osteogenic tumors commonly occurring in the craniofacial bones. Osteomas are characterized by the proliferation of compact and/or cancellous bone. It can be of a central, peripheral, or extraskeletal type. The peripheral type arises from the periosteum and is rarely seen in the mandible. The lingual surface and lower border of the body are the most common locations of these lesions. They are usually asymptomatic and can be discovered in routine clinical and radiographic examination. In this paper, we presented a large solitary peripheral osteoma located in the buccal surface of the left posterior mandible and causing facial deformity in a 37-year-old woman. Radiographic examination by computed tomography revealed radiopacity with a well-circumscribed, pedunculated mass approximately 3 cm in size. The osteoma was removed surgically, and no recurrence has been observed.
Factors Affecting the Cost Effectiveness of Antibiotics
Authors: Simoens Steven
Published: February 2011

In an era of spiraling health care costs and limited resources, policy makers and health care payers are concerned about the cost effectiveness of antibiotics. The aim of this study is to draw on published economic evaluations with a view to identify and illustrate the factors affecting the cost effectiveness of antibiotic treatment of bacterial infections. The findings indicate that the cost effectiveness of antibiotics is influenced by factors relating to the characteristics and the use of antibiotics (i.e., diagnosis, comparative costs and comparative effectiveness, resistance, patient compliance with treatment, and treatment failure) and by external factors (i.e., funding source, clinical pharmacy interventions, and guideline implementation interventions). Physicians need to take into account these factors when prescribing an antibiotic and assess whether a specific antibiotic treatment adds sufficient value to justify its costs.
Assessment of Elastase‐Induced Murine Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms: Comparison of Ultrasound Imaging with In Situ Video Microscopy
Authors: Azuma Junya , Maegdefessel Lars , Kitagawa Toshiro , Dalman Ronald L. , McConnell Michael V. , Tsao Philip S.
Published: February 2011

Aims. The aim of this study was to definitively assess the validity of noninvasive high‐frequency ultrasound (US) measurements of aortic luminal diameter (ALD) in a murine model of elastase‐induced abdominal aortic aneurysm in comparison with in situ video microscopy (VM).
Methods. C57BL/6 mice underwent transient perfusion of the aorta with either elastase (n = 20: Elastase group) or saline (n = 10: Sham). Unoperated mice (n = 10) were also studied. Results. ALD measurements by US had excellent linear correlation and absolute agreement with that by VM in both Control (unoperated or sham‐operated mice) and elastase groups (r = 0.96, intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) = 0.88 and r = 0.93, ICC = 0.92, resp.). Bland‐Altman analysis of US compared with VM measurements in both groups indicated good agreement, however US measurements were slightly but significantly higher than VM measurements in the control group (mean bias 0.039 mm, P < .05). Linear regression analysis revealed excellent correlation between US and VM measurements in both groups. (R2 = 0.91 in Control group, R2 = 0.85 in elastase group.) The reliability of US measurements was also confirmed by ex vivo histological measurements. Conclusions. High‐frequency US provides reliable ALD measurements in developing murine abdominal aortic aneurysms.
Blood‐Oxygenation‐Level‐Dependent‐(BOLD‐) Based R2′ MRI Study in Monkey Model of Reversible Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion
Authors: Zhang Jing , Chen Ying-min , Zhang Yun-ting
Published: February 2011

Objective. To investigate the value of BOLD‐based reversible transverse relaxation rate (R2′) MRI in detecting ischemic penumbra (IP) in a monkey model of reversible middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) and time evolution of relative R2′ (rR2′) in infarcted core, IP, and oligemia. Materials and Methods. 6 monkeys were used to make MCAO by the microcatheter method. MR scans were performed at 0 h (1 h after MCAO), 1 h, 3 h, 6 h, 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h after reperfusion. R2′ was calculated using quantitative T2 and T2∗ maps. Ischemic area was subdivided into infracted core, IP and oligemia. rR2′ was calculated respectively. Results. Reversible MCAO model for 4/6 monkeys was made successfully. rR2′ values were significantly different at each time point, being highest in oligemia followed by IP and infarcted core (P < .05). With reperfusion time evolution, rR2′ in infarcted core showed a decreased trend: sharply decreased within 6 hours and maintained at 0 during 6–48 hours (P < .05). rR2′ values in IP and oligemia showed similar increased trend: sharply increased within 6 hours, maintained a plateau during 6–24 hours, and slightly increased until 48 hours. Conclusion. BOLD‐based R2′ MRI can be used to describe changes of cerebral oxygen extract in acute ischemic stroke, and it can provide additional information in detecting IP. The time evolution rR2′ in infarcted core, IP, and oligemia is in accordance with the underlying pathophysiology.
Noninvasive Monitoring of Hepatic Damage from Hepatitis C Virus Infection
Authors: Alavez-Ramírez J. , Fuentes-Allen J. L. , López-Estrada J.
Published: February 2011

The mathematical model for the dynamics of the hepatitis C proposed in Avendaño et al. (2002), with four populations (healthy and unhealthy hepatocytes, the viral load of the hepatitis C virus, and T killer cells), is revised. Showing that the reduced model obtained by considering only the first three of these populations, known as basic model, has two possible equilibrium states: the uninfected one where viruses are not present in the individual, and the endemic one where viruses and infected cells are present. A threshold parameter (the basic reproductive virus number) is introduced, and in terms of it, the global stability of both two possible equilibrium states is established. Other central result consists in showing, by model numerical simulations, the feasibility of monitoring liver damage caused by HCV, avoiding unnecessary biopsies and the undesirable related inconveniences/imponderables to the patient; another result gives a mathematical modelling basis to recently developed techniques for the disease assessment based essentially on viral load measurements.
Concentration and Annealing Effects on Luminescence Properties of Ion-Implanted Silica Layers
Authors: Salh Roushdey
Published: February 2011

The development of optoelectronic or even photonic devices based on silicon technology is still a great challenge. Silicon and its oxide do not possess direct optical transitions and, therefore, are not luminescent. The remaining weak light emission is based on intrinsic and extrinsic defect luminescence. Thus the investigations are extended to ion implantation into silica layers, mainly on over-stoichiometric injection or isoelectronic substitution of both the constituents silicon or oxygen, that is, by ions of the group IV (C, Si, Ge, Sn, Pb) or the group VI (O, S, Se). The samples have been used were 500 nm thick thermally grown amorphous SiO2 layers, wet oxidized at 1100°C on a crystalline Si substrate. The ion implantations were performed with different energies but all with a uniform dose of 5 × 1016 ions/cm2. Such implantations produce new luminescence bands, partially with electronic-vibronic transitions and related multimodal spectra. Special interest should be directed to lowdimension nanocluster formation in silica layers. Implantations of group IV elements show a general increase of the luminescence in the violet-blue region and implantations of group VI elements lead to an increase in the yellow-red spectral region. Comparing cathodoluminescence, photoluminescence, and electroluminescence still too small luminescence quantum yields are obtained.
The Terminal Responses of the Two‐Wire Line in Multiaperture Cavities Based on Electromagnetic Topology and Method of Moments
Authors: Li Ying , Luo Jianshu , Ni Guyan
Published: February 2011

A simulation technique based on electromagnetic topology (EMT) theory is proposed for analyzing electromagnetic interference (EMI) coupling through apertures onto the two‐transmission line enclosed within metallic structures. The electromagnetic interactions between apertures and the external‐internal interactions were treated through the topological decomposition and the multistep iterative method. Then, the load responses of the two‐wire transmission line are resolved by the the Baum‐Liu‐Tesche (BLT) equation. The simulation results both without and with the electromagnetic interaction are presented for the frequency range from 100 MHz to 3 GHz. These numerical results obtained by two methods imply that the electromagnetic interaction cannot be simply ignored, especially for the frequency range up to 1 GHz.
Surgical Treatment for Unexplained Severe Pain of the Thyroid Gland: Report of Three Cases and Concise Review of the Literature
Authors: van Schaik Jan , Dekkers Olaf M. , van der Kleij-Corssmit Eleonora P. M. , Romijn Johannes A. , Morreau Hans , van de Velde Cornelis J. H.
Published: February 2011

Painful thyroid has a limited differential diagnosis. In rare cases, no clear cause can be found after careful clinical, biochemical, and radiological analysis. This may lead to extensive patient morbidity and frustration when symptomatic treatment proves insufficient. Hemithyroidectomy or total thyroidectomy may then be the last resort for doctor and patient. Three cases of unexplained painful thyroid which were successfully treated with hemi or total thyroidectomy are presented. In two cases extensive histological evaluation did not yield a satisfactory explanation for the extreme thyroid pain. In one case histological evaluation of the thyroid revealed Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Review of the literature does not mention surgical treatment for unexplained painful thyroid, and only 15 cases of surgical treatment for painful Hashimoto's thyroiditis are presented. Surgical therapy is a successful final option in the treatment of unexplained painful thyroid and painful Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
A Defect‐Correction Mixed Finite Element Method for Stationary Conduction‐Convection Problems
Authors: Si Zhiyong , He Yinnian
Published: February 2011

A defect‐correction mixed finite element method (MFEM) for
solving the stationary conduction‐convection problems in two‐dimension is
given. In this method, we solve the nonlinear equations with an added artificial viscosity term on a grid and correct this solution on the same grid using
a linearized defect‐correction technique. The stability is given and the error
analysis in L2 and H1‐norm of u, T and the L2‐norm of p are derived. The
theory analysis shows that our method is stable and has a good precision.
Some numerical results are also given, which show that the defect‐correction
MFEM is highly efficient for the stationary conduction‐convection problems.
Elbow Extension Predicts Motor Impairment and Performance after Stroke
Authors: Massie Crystal L. , Fritz Stacy , Malcolm Matthew P.
Published: February 2011

Background and Purpose. Kinematic motion analysis has helped to characterize poststroke reaching strategies with the hemiparetic arm. However, the relationships between reaching strategy and performance on common functional outcome measures remain unclear.Methods. Thirty-five participants were tested for motor performance and motor impairment using the Wolf Motor Function Test (time and functional ability measure) and Fugl-Meyer assessment, respectively. Kinematic motion analysis of a forward reaching paradigm provided potential predictors of reaching strategy including shoulder flexion, elbow extension, and trunk displacement. A stepwise linear regression model with three potential predictors was used in addition to Pearson-product moment correlations.Results. Kinematic analysis of elbow extension predicted performance on both the Wolf Motor Function Test and Fugl-Meyer assessment. Shoulder flexion and trunk displacement did not significantly predict functional or reaching time outcomes. The Wolf Motor Function Test and the Fugl-Meyer assessment were highly correlated.Conclusions. The ability to incorporate elbow extension during reach is a significant predictor of motor performance and hemiparetic arm motor capacity after stroke.
Preparation and Characterization of Water-Soluble Chitosan Microparticles Loaded with Insulin Using the Polyelectrolyte Complexation Method
Authors: Wu Sihui , Tao Yi , Zhang Hongliang , Su Zhengquan
Published: February 2011

Polymeric delivery systems based on microparticles have emerged as a promising approach for peroral insulin delivery. The amount of insulin was quantified by the improved Bradford method. It was shown that water-soluble chitosan/insulin/tripolyphosphate (TPP) mass ratio played an important role in microparticles formation. Stable, uniform, and spherical water-soluble chitosan microparticles (WSC-MPs) with high insulin association efficiency were formed at or close to optimized WSC/insulin/TPP mass ratio. WSC-MPs had higher association efficiency in the pH 4.0 and pH 9.7 of TPP solution. The results showed that association efficiency and loading capacity of insulin-loaded WSC-MPs prepared in 0.01 mol/L HCl of insulin were 48.28 ± 0.90% and 9.52 ± 1.34%. The average size of insulin-loaded WSC-MPs was 292 nm. The presented WSC microparticulate system has promising properties towards the development of an oral delivery system for insulin.
Nonstationary Superconductivity: Quantum Dissipation and Time-Dependent Ginzburg-Landau Equation
Authors: Barybin Anatoly A.
Published: February 2011

Transport equations of the macroscopic superfluid dynamics are revised on the basis of a combination of the conventional (stationary) Ginzburg-Landau equation and Schrödinger's equation for the macroscopic wave function (often called the order parameter) by using the well-known Madelung-Feynman approach to representation of the quantum-mechanical equations in hydrodynamic form. Such an approach has given (a) three different contributions to the resulting chemical potential for the superfluid component, (b) a general hydrodynamic equation of superfluid motion, (c) the continuity equation for superfluid flow with a relaxation term involving the phenomenological parameters and , (d) a new version of the time-dependent Ginzburg-Landau equation for the modulus of the order parameter which takes into account dissipation effects and reflects the charge conservation property for the superfluid component. The conventional Ginzburg-Landau equation also follows from our continuity equation as a particular case of stationarity. All the results obtained are mutually consistent within the scope of the chosen phenomenological description and, being model-neutral, applicable to both the low- and high- superconductors.
Some Observations on Carbon Nanotubes Susceptibility to Cell Phagocytosis
Authors: Fraczek-Szczypta Aneta , Menaszek Elzbieta , Blazewicz Stanislaw
Published: February 2011

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of different types of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on cell phagocytosis. Three kinds of carbon nanotubes: single-walled carbon nanohorns (SWCNHs), multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), and ultra-long single-walled carbon nanotubes (ULSWCNTs) before and after additional chemical functionalization were seeded with macrophage cell culture. Prior to biological testing, the CNTs were subjected to dispersion process with the use of phosphate buffered solution (PBS) and PBS containing surfactant (Tween 20) or dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO). The results indicate that the cells interaction with an individual nanotube is entirely different as compared to CNTs in the form of aggregate. The presence of the surfactant favors the CNTs dispersion in culture media and facilitates phagocytosis process, while it has disadvantageous influence on cells morphology. The cells phagocytosis is a more effective for MWCNTs and SWCNHs after their chemical functionalization. Moreover, these nanotubes were well dispersed in culture media without using DMSO or surfactant. The functionalized carbon nanotubes were easily dispersed in pure PBS and seeded with cells.
On the Existence Result for System of Generalized Strong Vector Quasiequilibrium Problems
Authors: Plubtieng Somyot , Sitthithakerngkiet Kanokwan
Published: February 2011

We introduce a new type of the system of generalized strong vector quasiequilibrium problems with set-valued mappings in real locally convex Hausdorff topological vector spaces. We establish an existence theorem by using Kakutani-Fan-Glicksberg fixed-point theorem and discuss the closedness of strong solution set for the system of generalized strong vector quasiequilibrium problem. The results presented in the paper improve and extend the main results of Long et al. (2008).
Oral Administration of Semicarbazide Limits Weight Gain together with Inhibition of Fat Deposition and of Primary Amine Oxidase Activity in Adipose Tissue
Authors: Mercader Josep , Iffiú-Soltész Zsuzsa , Bour Sandy , Carpéné Christian
Published: February 2011

An enzyme hitherto named semicarbazide-sensitive amine oxidase (SSAO), involved in the oxidation of primary amines, is abundantly expressed in adipocytes. Although SSAO physiological functions remain unclear, several molecules inhibiting its activity have been described to limit fat accumulation in preadipocyte cultures or to reduce body weight gain in obese rodents. Here, we studied whether oral administration of semicarbazide, a prototypical SSAO inhibitor, limits fat deposition in mice. Prolonged treatment with semicarbazide at 0.125% in drinking water limited food and water consumption, hampered weight gain, and deeply impaired fat deposition. The adiposomatic index was reduced by 31%, while body mass was reduced by 15%. Such treatment completely inhibited SSAO, but did not alter MAO activity in white adipose tissue. Consequently, the insulin-like action of the SSAO substrate benzylamine on glucose transport was abolished in adipocytes from semicarbazide-drinking mice, while their insulin sensitivity was not altered. Although semicarbazide is currently considered as a food contaminant with deleterious effects, the SSAO inhibition it induces appears as a novel concept to modulate adipose tissue development, which is promising for antiobesity drug discovery.
Global Attractivity of a Family of Max‐Type Difference Equations
Authors: Yang Xiaofan , Liu Wanping , Liu Jiming
Published: February 2011

We propose to study a generalized family of max‐type difference
equations and then prove the global attractivity of a particular case of it under some
parameter conditions. Through some numerical results of other cases, we finally pose
a generic conjecture.
The Uncertainty Measure of Hierarchical Quotient Space Structure
Authors: Zhang Qinghua , Wang Guoyin
Published: February 2011

In the application of fuzzy reasoning, researchers usually choose the membership function optionally in some degree. Even though the membership functions may be different for the same concept, they can generally get the same (or approximate) results. The robustness of the membership function optionally chosen has brought many researchers′ attention. At present, many researchers pay attention to the structural interpretation (definition) of a fuzzy concept, and find that a hierarchical quotient space structure may be a better tool than a fuzzy set for characterizing the essential of fuzzy concept in some degree. In this paper, first the uncertainty of a hierarchical quotient space structure is defined, the information entropy sequence of a hierarchical quotient space structure is proposed, the concept of isomorphism between two hierarchical quotient space structures is defined, and the sufficient condition of isomorphism between two hierarchical quotient space structures is discovered and proved also. Then, the relationships among information entropy sequence, hierarchical quotient space structure, fuzzy equivalence relation, and fuzzy similarity relation are analyzed. Finally, a fast method for constructing a hierarchical quotient space structure is presented.
Comparative Study on the MDR Reversal Effects of Selected Chalcones
Authors: Ivanova A. B. , Batovska D. I. , Todorova I. T. , Stamboliyska B. A. , Serly J. , Molnar J.
Published: February 2011

Based on the structure of three previously established lead compounds, fifteen selected chalcones were synthesized and evaluated for their multidrug resistance (MDR) reversal activity on mouse lymphoma cells. The most active chalcones were stronger revertants than the positive control, verapamil. In the model of combination chemotherapy, the interactions between the anticancer drug doxorubicin and two of the most effective compounds were measuredin vitro, on human MDR1 gene transfected mouse lymphoma cells, showing that the type of interaction for one of these compounds was indifferent while that for the other one was additive. Furthermore, two chalcones inhibited 50% of cell proliferation in concentration of around 0.4 μg/mL and were from 2- to 100-fold more active than the most chalcones. The structure-activity relationships were obtained and discussed in view of their usefulness for the design of chalcone-like P-gp modulators and drugs able to treat resistant cancers.
On Fixed Point Theorems of Mixed Monotone Operators
Authors: Du Xinsheng , Zhao Zengqin
Published: February 2011

We obtain some new existence and uniqueness theorems of positive fixed point of mixed monotone operators in Banach spaces partially ordered by a cone. Some results are new even for increasing or decreasing operators.
Human Immunodeficiency Virus Infection and Hodgkin's Lymphoma in South Africa: An Emerging Problem
Authors: Patel Moosa , Philip Vinitha , Fazel Fatima
Published: February 2011

Hodgkin's lymphoma (HL) occurs with increasing frequency in human-immunodeficiency-virus-(HIV-) infected individuals. The natural history and behaviour of HIV-HL is different, being more atypical and aggressive. The association between HIV and HL appears to be primarily EBV driven. HAART use does not significantly impact on the incidence of HL. Indeed, the risk of HL has increased in the post-HAART era. However, the advent of HAART has brought renewed hope, allowing standard therapeutic options to be used more optimally, with better treatment outcomes. Despite the renewed optimism, the overall survival of HIV-HL patients remains less favourable than that in HIV-seronegative patients. This is particularly true in sub-Saharan Africa, where there is a significant burden of HIV/AIDS and where more than half the patients are HAART naive at diagnosis of HL. The similarities and differences of a South African cohort of HIV-HL are presented in this paper.
Hybrid Feedback Stabilization of Fuzzy Nonlinear Systems
Authors: Zhang Yingqi , Liu Caixia , Mu Xiaowu
Published: February 2011

This paper is concerned with the problem of stabilizing one family of fuzzy
nonlinear systems by means of fuzzy quantized feedback. The hybrid control strategy
originating in earlier work by Brockett and Liberzon (2000) and Liberzon (2003) relies on the possibility of making discrete online adjustments of quantizer parameters. We explore this method here for one class of fuzzy nonlinear systems with fuzzy quantizers affecting the state of the system. New results on the
stabilization of the family of fuzzy nonlinear systems are obtained by choosing
appropriately quantized strategies. Finally, an illustrative example is given to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
A “Proteoglycan Targeting Strategy” for the Scintigraphic Imaging and Monitoring of the Swarm Rat Chondrosarcoma Orthotopic Model
Authors: Peyrode Caroline , Gouin François , Vidal Aurélien , Auzeloux Philippe , Besse Sophie , Dauplat Marie-Mélanie , Askienazy Serge , Heymann Dominique , Chezal Jean-Michel , Redini Françoise , Miot-Noirault Elisabeth
Published: February 2011

Our lab developed99mTc-NTP 15-5 radiotracer as targeting proteoglycans (PGs) for the scintigraphic imaging of joint. This paper reports preclinical results of99mTc-NTP 15-5 imaging of an orthotopic model of Swarm rat chondrosarcoma (SRC).99mTc-NTP 15-5 imaging of SRC-bearing and sham-operated animals was performed and quantified at regular intervals after surgery and compared to bone scintigraphy and tumoural volume. Tumours were characterized by histology and PG assay. SRC exhibited a significant99mTc-NTP 15-5 uptake at very early stage after implant (with tumour/muscle ratio of 1.61 ± 0.14), whereas no measurable tumour was evidenced. As tumour grew, mean tumour/muscle ratio was increased by 2.4, between the early and late stage of pathology. Bone scintigraphy failed to image chondrosarcoma, even at the later stage of study.99mTc-NTP 15-5 imaging provided a suitable set of quantitative criteria for thein vivocharacterization of chondrosarcoma behaviour in bone environment, useful for achieving a greater understanding of the pathology.
Expression of Hepatitis B Virus Surface Antigen Containing Y100C Variant Frequently Detected in Occult HBV Infection
Authors: Mello Francisco C. A. , Martel Nora , Gomes Selma A. , Araujo Natalia M.
Published: February 2011

Small hepatitis B virus surface protein (S-HBsAg) variant Y100C has been associated with HBsAg-negative phenotype. To determine whether Y100C substitution yields impaired HBsAg or small amounts of HBsAg that may reduce HBsAg detection by commercial anti-HBsAg antibodies, two eukaryotic expression plasmids, one containing a wild-type S and the other an S gene from a Y100C variant, were constructed and their levels of HBsAg compared by ELISA after transfection of HuH7 cells. Unexpectedly, the extracellular HBsAg levels detected with Y100C plasmid were higher than those observed with the wild-type plasmid, but without statistical significance. We concluded that the Y100C substitution alone did not play a role in reducing HBsAg amounts or HBsAg affinity by commercial ELISA assay. Further studies on in vitro replication fitness with the complete genome of HBV isolates displaying or not Y100C substitution may elucidate whether this mutation affects HBV replication and consequently HBsAg production.
Acu‐TENS and Postexercise Expiratory Flow Volume in Healthy Subjects
Authors: Ngai Shirley P. C. , Jones Alice Y. M. , Hui-Chan Christina W. Y.
Published: February 2011

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation over acupoints (Acu‐TENS) facilitates recovery of resting heart rate after treadmill exercise in healthy subjects. Its effect on postexercise respiratory indices has not been reported. This study investigates the effect of Acu‐TENS on forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) in healthy subjects after a submaximal exercise. Eleven male subjects were invited to the laboratory twice, two weeks apart, to receive in random order either Acu‐TENS or Placebo‐TENS (no electrical output from the TENS unit) over bilateral Lieque (LU7) and Dingchuan (EX‐B1) for 45 minutes, before undergoing exercise following the Bruce protocol. Exercise duration, rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and peak heart rate (PHR) were recorded. Between‐group FEV1 and FVC, before, immediately after, at 15, 30, and 45minutes postexercise, were compared. While no between‐group differences in PHR, RPE, and FVC were found, Acu‐TENS was associated with a longer exercise duration (0.9 min (P= .026)) and a higher percentage increase in FEV1 at 15 and 45 minutes postexercise (3.3 ± 3.7% (P= .013) and 5.1 ± 7.5% (P= .047), resp.) compared to Placebo‐TENS. We concluded that Acu‐TENS was associated with a higher postexercise FEV1 and a prolongation of submaximal exercise.
Controlled Release from Core-Shell Nanoporous Silica Particles for Corrosion Inhibition of Aluminum Alloys
Authors: Jiang Xingmao , Jiang Ying-Bing , Liu Nanguo , Xu Huifang , Rathod Shailendra , Shah Pratik , Brinker C. Jeffrey
Published: February 2011

Cerium (Ce) corrosion inhibitors were encapsulated into hexagonally ordered nanoporous silica particles via single-step aerosol-assisted self-assembly. The core/shell structured particles are effective for corrosion inhibition of aluminum alloy AA2024-T3. Numerical simulation proved that the core-shell nanostructure delays the release process. The effective diffusion coefficient elucidated from release data for monodisperse particles in water was1.0×10−14 m2s for Ce3+compared to2.5×10−13 m2s for NaCl. The pore size, pore surface chemistry, and the inhibitor solubility are crucial factors for the application. Microporous hydrophobic particles encapsulating a less soluble corrosion inhibitor are desirable for long-term corrosion inhibition.
Subjects with Discordant Airways Obstruction: Lost between Spirometric Definitions of COPD
Authors: Lamprecht Bernd , Schirnhofer Lea , Kaiser Bernhard , Buist Sonia A. , Mannino David M. , Studnicka Michael
Published: February 2011

Background. Since the FEV1/FVC ratio declines with age, using the fixed ratio of 0.70 leads to overdiagnosis of COPD in older populations and underdiagnosis among young adults.Objective. To evaluate whetherdiscordant obstructive cases(FEV1/FVC < 0.70 but ≥LLN) are a healthy population or have clinical features that would place them at increased risk.Methods. We used post-bronchodilator spirometry data from the population-based Austrian Burden of Obstructive Lung Disease (BOLD) study. Those with post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio <LLN and <0.70 were defined asconcordant obstructive cases. Participants with post-bronchodilator FEV1/FVC ratio ≥LLN but <0.70 were defined asdiscordant obstructive cases.Results.Discordant obstructive caseswere more likely to be older, male and never-smokers. Additionally they had less respiratory symptoms and less severe impairment of FEV1. However,discordant obstructive casesreported significantly more often a diagnosis of heart disease than subjects with normal lung function (27.2% vs 7.3%,P=.015).Conclusion. The clinical profile of discordant obstructive cases includes potentially important comorbid disease.
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases and Reactive Oxygen Species: How Can ROS Activate MAPK Pathways?
Authors: Son Yong , Cheong Yong-Kwan , Kim Nam-Ho , Chung Hun-Taeg , Kang Dae Gill , Pae Hyun-Ock
Published: February 2011

Mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPKs) are serine-threonine protein kinases that play the major role in signal transduction from the cell surface to the nucleus. MAPKs, which consist of growth factor-regulated extracellular signal-related kinases (ERKs), and the stress-activated MAPKs, c-jun NH2-terminal kinases (JNKs) and p38 MAPKs, are part of a three-kinase signaling module composed of the MAPK, an MAPK kinase (MAP2K) and an MAPK kinase (MAP3K). MAP3Ks phosphorylate MAP2Ks, which in turn activate MAPKs. MAPK phosphatases (MKPs), which recognize the TXY amino acid motif present in MAPKs, dephosphorylate and deactivate MAPKs. MAPK pathways are known to be influenced not only by receptor ligand interactions, but also by different stressors placed on the cell. One type of stress that induces potential activation of MAPK pathways is the oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Generally, increased ROS production in a cell leads to the activation of ERKs, JNKs, or p38 MAPKs, but the mechanisms by which ROS can activate these kinases are unclear. Oxidative modifications of MAPK signaling proteins and inactivation and/or degradation of MKPs may provide the plausible mechanisms for activation of MAPK pathways by ROS, which will be reviewed in this paper.
Musculoskeletal Manifestations of Sickle Cell Anaemia: A Pictorial Review
Authors: Ganguly A. , Boswell W. , Aniq H.
Published: February 2011

Sickle cell anaemia is an autosomal recessive genetic condition producing abnormal haemoglobin HbS molecules that result in stiff and sticky red blood cells leading to unpredictable episodes of microvascular occlusions. The clinical and radiological manifestations of sickle cell anaemia result from small vessel occlusion, leading to tissue ischemia/infarction and progressive end-organ damage. In this paper we discuss and illustrate the various musculoskeletal manifestations of sickle cell disease focusing primarily on marrow hyperplasia, osteomyelitis and septic arthritis, medullary and epiphyseal bone infarcts, growth defects, and soft tissue changes.
A Third‐Order Differential Equation and Starlikeness of a Double Integral Operator
Authors: Ali Rosihan M. , Lee See Keong , Subramanian K. G. , Swaminathan A.
Published: February 2011

Functions that are analytic in the unit disk and satisfy the differential equation f′(z) + αzf”(z) + γz2f′”(z) = g(z) are considered, where g is subordinated to a normalized convex univalent function h. These functions f are given by a double integral operator of the form with G′ subordinated to h. The best dominant to all solutions of the differential equation is obtained. Starlikeness properties and various sharp estimates of these solutions are investigated for particular cases of the convex function h.
Solving the Set Equilibrium Problems
Authors: Lin Yen-Cherng , Chen Hsin-Jung
Published: February 2011

We study the weak solutions and strong solutions of set equilibrium problems in real Hausdorff topological vector space settings. Several new results of existence for the weak solutions and strong solutions of set equilibrium problems are derived. The new results extend and modify various existence theorems for similar problems.
Induced Unbalance as a Method for Improving the Dynamic Stability of High-Speed Turbochargers
Authors: Gordon Kirk R. , Alsaeed Ali A.
Published: February 2011

The high-speed diesel engine turbocharger is known to have subsynchronous vibrations for a wide speed range. The bearing fluid-film instability is the main source of the vibration. The nonlinear forces inside the bearings are causing the rotor to whirl in a limit cycle. This study presents a new method for improving the dynamic stability by inducing the turbocharger rotor unbalance in order to suppress the subsynchronous vibration. The finite-element model of the turbocharger with floating-ring bearings is numerically solved for the nonlinear time-transient response. Both compressor and turbine added unbalance are induced and the dynamic stability is computed. The turbocharger model with linearized floating-ring bearings is also solved for eigenvalues to predict the modes of instability. The linear analysis demonstrates that the forward whirling mode of the floating-ring at the compressor end also becomes unstable at the higher turbocharger speeds, in addition to the unstable forward conical and cylindrical modes. The numerical predictions are also compared to the former experimental results of a similar turbocharger. The results of the study show that the subsynchronous frequency amplitude of the dominant first mode is reduced when inducing either the compressor or the turbine unbalance at a certain level.
The Societal Benefits and Costs of School Dropout Recovery
Authors: Catterall James S.
Published: February 2011

This article reports an analysis of the societal benefits and costs of recovering school dropouts. Successful recovery is defined by subsequent graduation from high school. The analysis is based on established estimates of the societal costs of dropping out including reduced government tax collections and higher social costs of welfare, healthcare, and crime. These potential costs are cast as benefits when a dropout is recovered. A large dropout recovery program provides the setting for the analysis. Rigorous attention is given to accurate estimation of the number of students who would not have graduated without the program in the year assessed and to the induced public costs of their continued education. Estimated benefits are weighed against the total annual public costs of the program, which operates in 65 school centers and commands an annual budget of about $70 million. The estimated benefit-cost ratio for this program is 3 to 1, a figure comparable to benefit-cost ratio estimates reported in studies of dropout prevention. The sensitivity of this conclusion to specific assumptions within the analysis is discussed.
Infection of Human Coronary Artery Endothelial Cells by Group B Streptococcus Contributes to Dysregulation of Apoptosis, Hemostasis, and Innate Immune Responses
Authors: Beyrich Claudia , Löffler Jürgen , Kobsar Anna , Speer Christian P. , Kneitz Susanne , Eigenthaler Martin
Published: February 2011

Early onset sepsis due to group B streptococcus leads to neonatal morbidity, increased mortality, and long-term neurological deficencies. Interaction between septicemic GBS and confluent monolayers of human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) was analyzed by genome wide expression profiling. In total, 124 genes were differentially expressed (89 upregulated, 35 downregulated) based on a more than 3-fold difference to control HCAEC. Regulated genes are involved in apoptosis, hemostasis, oxidative stress response, infection, and inflammation. Regulation of selected genes and proteins identified in the gene array analysis was confirmed by Real-time RT-PCR assay (granulocyte chemotactic protein 2), ELISA (urokinase, cyclooxygenase 2, granulocyte chemotactic protein 1), and western blotting (Heme oxygenase1, BCL2 interacting protein) at various time points between 4 and 24 hours. These results indicate that GBS infection might influence signalling pathways leading to impaired function of the innate immune system and hemorrhagic and inflammatory complications during GBS sepsis.
FGF21 as an Endocrine Regulator in Lipid Metabolism: From Molecular Evolution to Physiology and Pathophysiology
Authors: Murata Yusuke , Konishi Morichika , Itoh Nobuyuki
Published: February 2011

The FGF family comprises twenty-two structurally related proteins with functions in development and metabolism. TheFgf21gene was generated early in vertebrate evolution. FGF21 acts as an endocrine regulator in lipid metabolism. HepaticFgf21expression is markedly induced in mice by fasting or a ketogenic diet. Experiments withFgf21transgenic mice and cultured cells indicate that FGF21 exerts pharmacological effects on glucose and lipid metabolism in hepatocytes and adipocytes via cell surface FGF receptors. However, experiments withFgf21knockout mice indicate that FGF21 inhibits lipolysis in adipocytes during fasting and attenuates torpor induced by a ketogenic diet but maybe not a physiological regulator for these hepatic functions. These findings suggest the pharmacological effects to be distinct from the physiological roles. Serum FGF21 levels are increased in patients with metabolic diseases having insulin resistance, indicating that FGF21 is a metabolic regulator and a biomarker for these diseases.