bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RECENT ADVANCE ON MEAN SHIFT TRACKING: A SURVEY
Authors: HE LIWEN , XU YONG , CHEN YAN , WEN JIAJUN
Published: August 2013

Though there have been many applications of object tracking, ranging from surveillance and monitoring to smart rooms, object tracking is always a challenging problem in computer vision over the past decades. Mean Shift-based object tracking has received much attention because it has a great number of advantages over other object tracking algorithms, e.g. real time, robust and easy to implement. In this survey, we first introduce the basic principle of the Mean Shift algorithm and the working procedure using the Mean Shift algorithm to track the object. This paper then describes the defects and potential issues of the traditional Mean Shift algorithm. Finally, we summarize the improvements to the Mean Shift algorithm and some hybrid tracking algorithms that researchers have proposed. The main improvements include scale adaptation, kernel selection, on-line model updating, feature selection and mode optimization, etc.
PLANTAR PRESSURE DISTRIBUTION CHARACTER IN YOUNG FEMALE WITH MILD HALLUX VALGUS WEARING HIGH-HEELED SHOES
Authors: GU YAODONG , LI FENGLING , LI JIANSHE , FENG NENG , LAKE MARK J. , LI ZHIYONG , REN JAMES
Published: August 2013

Young females with mild hallux valgus (HV) have been identified as having an increased risk of first ray deformation. Little is known, however, about the biomechanical changes that might contribute to this increased risk. The purpose of this study was to compare kinetics changes during walking for mild HV subjects with high-heel-height shoes. Twelve female subjects (six with mild HV and six controls) participated in this study with heel height varying from 0 cm (barefoot) to 4.5 cm. Compared to healthy controls, patients had significantly higher peak pressure on the big toe area during barefoot walking. When the heel height increased, loading was transferred to medial side of the forefoot, and the big toe area suffered more impact compared to barefoot in mild HV. This study also demonstrated that the center of pressure (COP) inclines to medial side alteration after high-heeled shoes wearing. These findings indicate that mild HV people should be discouraged from wearing high-heeled shoes.
REDUCING COMPUTATIONAL EFFORT IN SOLVING GEOMECHANICS PROBLEMS WITH UPPER BOUND FINITE ELEMENTS LIMIT ANALYSIS AND LINEAR OPTIMIZATION
Authors: SAHOO JAGDISH PRASAD , KUMAR JYANT
Published: August 2013

This paper presents a simple technique for reducing the computational effort while solving any geotechnical stability problem by using the upper bound finite element limit analysis and linear optimization. In the proposed method, the problem domain is discretized into a number of different regions in which a particular order (number of sides) of the polygon is chosen to linearize the Mohr–Coulomb yield criterion. A greater order of the polygon needs to be selected only in that region wherein the rate of the plastic strains becomes higher. The computational effort required to solve the problem with this implementation reduces considerably. By using the proposed method, the bearing capacity has been computed for smooth and rough strip footings and the results are found to be quite satisfactory.
Continental Upper Carboniferous red beds in the Variscan intermontane Saale Basin, central Germany: orbital forcing detected by wavelet analysis
Authors: Gebhardt Ute , Hiete Michael
Published: August 2013

Stratigraphical correlation within continental red beds is hampered by uniformity of sediments and the lack of fossils, such that classical lithostratigraphical and biostratigraphical methods often fail. For a drilled section of Upper Carboniferous non-marine sediments of the Variscan intermontane Saale Basin, almost 800 m in thickness, an alternative approach is proposed. Wavelet-based time-series analysis is used to identify the internal organization of the cyclicity, and to distinguish cycles of different magnitude and origin as being autocyclically, tectonically or climatically controlled. Based on this distinction, basin-wide correlations of fluvial red beds are possible using a combination of high-resolution stratigraphy, biostratigraphy and classical lithostratigraphy. The analyses of well Querfurt 1/64 suggest the presence of short and long eccentricity cycles, and a duration of 5–7 Ma if the grey facies at the base of the section is to be correlated with the Grillenberg Subformation sediments. This subformation is of Stephanian A or Barruelian age, respectively, such that the well Querfurt 1/64 exposes a nearly complete section of the Mansfeld Subgroup (complete Stephanian stage).
Differential Movement across Byrd Glacier, Antarctica, as indicated by Apatite (U–Th)/He thermochronology and geomorphological analysis
Authors: Foley D. J. , Stump E. , van Soest M. , Whipple K. X. , Hodges K. V.
Published: August 2013

The objectives of this study were to assess possible differential movement across an inferred fault beneath Byrd Glacier, and to measure the timing of unroofing in this portion of the Transantarctic Mountains. Apatites separated from rock samples collected from known elevations at various locations north and south of Byrd Glacier were dated using single crystal (U–Th)/He analysis. Results indicate a denudation rate of
c.
0.04 mm a
−1
in the time range
c.
140–40 Ma. Distinct age v. elevation plots from north and south of Byrd Glacier indicate an offset of
c.
1 km across the glacier with south side up. A Landsat image of the Byrd Glacier area was overlain on an Aster Global Digital Elevation Model and spot elevations of the Kukri erosion surface to the north and south of Byrd Glacier were mapped. The difference in elevation of the erosion surface across Byrd Glacier also shows an offset of
c.
1 km with south side up. Results support a model of relatively uniform cooling and unroofing of the region with later, post-40 Ma fault displacement that uplifted the south side of Byrd Glacier relative to the north.

Supplementary material:

Sample and apatite (U–Th)/He data are listed at
http://www.geolsoc.org.uk/SUP18671
Coastal environments from polar regions to the tropics: a geographer’s zonality perspective
Authors: Kelletat D. H. , Scheffers A. M. , May S. M.
Published: August 2013

From a geographical point of view, the general pattern of coastal zones (or geographical coastal zonality) is arranged along latitudinal gradients and gradations from the Equator to the poles, caused by the spherical shape of our planet and the distribution of heat according to the angle of incoming radiation. As the distribution of land and oceans differs between hemispheres and along latitudes, and atmospheric and oceanic circulation moves energy in all directions, the global pattern of coastal forms and processes due to climate-triggered conditions is very complex. Moreover, each single pattern is dynamic and subject to revision by changes in the climate. Some coastal zones (e.g. humid tropics or high polar zones) can be delimited rather easily, while others (e.g. temperate cool or those with alternating tropical climate) are more difficult to define. This paper provides a short overview of the state of the art in geographical zonality of coastal environments (not only of coastlines) from the poles to the Equator, with the main emphasis on cold and warm zones, pointing to climate-induced differences in the context of Quaternary climate change or those occurring over the last centuries and decades.
Materno-fetal transfer of docosahexaenoic acid is impaired by gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Pagán Ana , Prieto-Sánchez María T. , Blanco-Carnero José E. , Gil-Sánchez Alfonso , Parrilla Juan J. , Demmelmair Hans , Koletzko Berthold , Larqué Elvira
Published: August 2013

Better knowledge on the disturbed mechanisms implicated in materno-fetal long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid (LC-PUFA) transfer in pregnancies with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) may have potentially high implications for later on in effective LC-PUFA supplementation. We studied in vivo placental transfer of fatty acids (FA) using stable isotope tracers administrated to 11 control and 9 GDM pregnant women (6 treated with insulin). Subjects received orally [13C]palmitic, [13C]oleic and [13C]linoleic acids, and [13C]docosahexaenoic acid (13C-DHA) 12 h before elective caesarean section. Maternal blood samples were collected at −12, −3, −2, and −1 h, delivery, and +1 h. Placental tissue and venous cord blood were also collected. FA were quantified by gas chromatography (GC) and 13C enrichments by GC-isotope ratio mass spectrometry. [13C]FA concentration was higher in total lipids of maternal plasma in GDM vs. controls, except for [13C]DHA. Moreover, [13C]DHA showed lower placenta/maternal plasma ratio in GDM vs. controls and significantly lower cord/maternal plasma ratio. For the other studied FA, ratios were not different between GDM and controls. Disturbed [13C]DHA placental uptake occurs in both GDM treated with diet or insulin, whereas the last ones also have lower [13C]DHA in venous cord. The tracer study pointed toward impaired placental DHA uptake as critical step, whereas the transfer of the rest of [13C]FA was less affected. GDM under insulin treatment could also have higher fetal fat storage, contributing to reduce [13C]DHA in venous cord. DHA transfer to the fetus was reduced in GDM pregnancies compared with controls, which might affect the programming of neurodevelopment in their neonates.
Androgens influence microvascular dilation in PCOS through ET-A and ET-B receptors
Authors: Wenner Megan M. , Taylor Hugh S. , Stachenfeld Nina S.
Published: August 2013

Hyperandrogenism and vascular dysfunction often coexist in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We hypothesized that testosterone compromises cutaneous microvascular dilation in women with PCOS via the endothelin-1 ET-B subtype receptor. To control and isolate testosterone's effects on microvascular dilation, we administered a gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist (GnRHant) for 11 days in obese, otherwise healthy women [controls, 22.0 ( 4 ) yr, 36.0 (3.2) kg/m2] or women with PCOS [23 ( 4 ) yr, 35.4 (1.3) kg/m2], adding testosterone (T; 2.5 mg/day) on days 8–11. Using laser Doppler flowmetry and cutaneous microdialysis, we measured changes in skin microcirculatory responsiveness (ΔCVC) to local heating while perfusing ET-A (BQ-123) and ET-B (BQ-788) receptor antagonists under three experimental conditions: baseline (BL; prehormone intervention), GnRHant ( day 4 of administration), and T administration. At BL, ET-A receptor inhibition enhanced heat-induced vasodilation in both groups [ΔCVC control 2.03 (0.65), PCOS 2.10 (0.25), AU/mmHg, P < 0.05]; ET-B receptor inhibition reduced vasodilation in controls only [ΔCVC 0.98 (0.39), 1.41 (0.45) AU/mmHg for controls, PCOS] compared with saline [ΔCVC controls 1.27 (0.48), PCOS 1.31 (0.13) AU/mmHg]. GnRHant enhanced vasodilation in PCOS [saline ΔCVC 1.69 (0.23) AU/mmHg vs. BL, P < 0.05] and abolished the ET-A effect in both groups, a response reasserted with T in controls. ET-B receptor inhibition reduced heat-induced vasodilation in both groups during GnRHant and T [ΔCVC, controls: 0.95 (0.21) vs. 0.51 ( 13 ); PCOS: 1.27 (0.23) vs. 0.84 (0.27); for GnRHant vs. T, P < 0.05]. These data demonstrate that androgen suppression improves microvascular dilation in PCOS via ET-A and ET-B receptors.
Startle reveals independent preparation and initiation of triphasic EMG burst components in targeted ballistic movements
Authors: Forgaard Christopher J. , Maslovat Dana , Carlsen Anthony N. , Chua Romeo , Franks Ian M.
Published: August 2013

Muscles involved in rapid, targeted movements about a single joint often display a triphasic [agonist (AG1)-antagonist (ANT)-agonist (AG2)] electromyographic (EMG) pattern. Early work using movement perturbations suggested that for short movements, the entire EMG pattern was prepared and initiated in advance (Wadman WJ, Dernier van der Gon JJ, Geuze RH, Mol CR. J Hum Mov Stud 5: 3–17, 1979), whereas more recent transcranial magnetic stimulation evidence indicates that the ANT may be programmed separately (MacKinnon CD, Rothwell JC. J Physiol 528: 633–645, 2000) with execution of the bursts occurring serially (Irlbacher K, Voss M, Meyer BU, Rothwell JC. J Physiol 574: 917–928, 2006). The purpose of the current study was to investigate the generation of triphasic EMG bursts for movements of different amplitudes. In experiment 1, participants performed rapid elbow extension movements to 20° and 60° targets, and on some trials, a startling acoustic stimulus (SAS), which is thought to trigger prepared motor commands at short latency, was delivered at the onset of AG1. For short movements, this perturbation elicited ANT and AG2 early, suggesting the agonist and antagonist bursts may have been programmed independently. In contrast, the same manipulation did not disrupt EMG timing parameters for the long movements, raising the possibility that ANT and AG2 were not fully programmed in advance of movement onset. In experiment 2, an SAS was delivered later in the movement, which produced early onset of both ANT and AG2. We propose that the triphasic pattern is executed serially but believe the trigger signal for initiating the ANT burst occurs not in relation to the AG1 burst, but rather in close temporal proximity to the expected onset of ANT.
Relationship between obesity phenotypes and genetic determinants in a mouse model for juvenile obesity
Authors: Brockmann Gudrun A. , Schäfer Nadine , Hesse Claudia , Heise Sebastian , Neuschl Christina , Wagener Asja , Churchill Gary A. , Li Renhua
Published: August 2013

Obesity, a state of imbalance between lean mass and fat mass, is important for the etiology of diseases affected by the interplay of multiple genetic and environmental factors. Although genome-wide association studies have repeatedly associated genes with obesity and body weight, the mechanisms underlying the interaction between the muscle and adipose tissues remain unknown. Using 351 mice (at 10 wk of age) of an intercross population between Berlin Fat Mouse Inbred (BFMI) and C57BL/6NCrl (B6N) mice, we examined the causal relationships between genetic variations and multiple traits: body lean mass and fat mass, adipokines, and bone mineral density. Furthermore, evidence from structural equation modeling suggests causality among these traits. In the BFMI model, juvenile obesity affects lean mass and impairs bone mineral density via adipokines secreted from the white adipose tissues. While previous studies have indicated that lean mass has a causative effect on adiposity, in the Berlin Fat Mouse model that has been selected for juvenile obesity (at 9 wk of age) for >90 generations, however, the causality is switched from fat mass to lean mass. In addition, linkage studies and statistical modeling have indicated that quantitative trait loci on chromosomes 5 and 6 affect both lean mass and fat mass. These lines of evidence indicate that the muscle and adipose tissues interact with one another and the interaction is modulated by genetic variations that are shaped by selections. Experimental examinations are necessary to verify the biological role of the inferred causalities.
Cell cycle arrest in a model of colistin nephrotoxicity
Authors: Eadon Michael T. , Hack Bradley K. , Alexander Jessy J. , Xu Chang , Dolan M. Eileen , Cunningham Patrick N.
Published: August 2013

Colistin (polymixin E) is an antibiotic prescribed with resurging frequency for multidrug resistant gram negative bacterial infections. It is associated with nephrotoxicity in humans in up to 55% of cases. Little is known regarding genes involved in colistin nephrotoxicity. A murine model of colistin-mediated kidney injury was developed. C57/BL6 mice were administered saline or colistin at a dose of 16 mg/kg/day in 2 divided intraperitoneal doses and killed after either 3 or 15 days of colistin. After 15 days, mice exposed to colistin had elevated blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine, and pathologic evidence of acute tubular necrosis and apoptosis. After 3 days, mice had neither BUN elevation nor substantial pathologic injury; however, urinary neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin was elevated ( P = 0.017). An Illumina gene expression array was performed on kidney RNA harvested 72 h after first colistin dose to identify differentially expressed genes early in drug treatment. Array data revealed 21 differentially expressed genes (false discovery rate < 0.1) between control and colistin-exposed mice, including LGALS3 and CCNB1. The gene signature was significantly enriched for genes involved in cell cycle proliferation. RT-PCR, immunoblot, and immunostaining validated the relevance of key genes and proteins. This murine model offers insights into the potential mechanism of colistin-mediated nephrotoxicity. Further studies will determine whether the identified genes play a causative or protective role in colistin-induced nephrotoxicity.
Mechanism of Hepatoprotective Effect ofBoesenbergia rotundain Thioacetamide-Induced Liver Damage in Rats
Authors: Salama Suzy M. , Abdulla Mahmood A. , AlRashdi Ahmed S. , Hadi A. Hamid A.
Published: August 2013

Background. Researchers focused on developing traditional therapies as pharmacological medicines to treat liver cirrhosis.Objectives. Evaluating the hepatoprotective activity ofBoesenbergia rotunda(BR) rhizome ethanolic extract on thioacetamide-induced liver cirrhosis in rats.Methods. MaleSprague-Dawleyrats were intraperitoneally injected with 200 mg/kg TAA 3 times/week and daily oral administration of 250 mg/kg, 500 mg/kg of BR extract, and 50 mg/kg of the reference drug Silymarin for 8 weeks. At the end of the experiment, Masson’s trichrome staining was used to measure the degree of liver fibrosis. Hepatic antioxidant enzymes (CAT and GPx), nitrotyrosine, cytochrome (P450 2E1), matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-2 and MMP-9), tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP-1), and urinary 8-hydroxyguanosine were measured. Serum levels of transforming growth factor TGF-β1, nuclear transcription factor NF-κB, proinflammatory cytokine IL-6, and caspase-3 were evaluated. Serum protein expression and immunohistochemistry of proapoptotic Bax and antiapoptotic Bcl-2 proteins were measured and confirmed by immunohistochemistry of Bax, Bcl-2, and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA).Results. BR treatment improved liver histopathology, immunohistochemistry, and biochemistry, triggered apoptosis, and inhibited cytokines, extracellular matrix proteins, and hepatocytes proliferation.Conclusion. Liver cirrhosis progression can be inhibited by the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of BR ethanolic extract while preserving the normal liver status.
Intravenous Laser Blood Irradiation Increases Efficacy of Etanercept in Selected Subtypes of Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: An Innovative Clinical Research Approach
Authors: Chiran Dragos Andrei , Litscher Gerhard , Weber Michael , Ailioaie Laura Marinela , Ailioaie Constantin , Litscher Daniela
Published: August 2013

This single-blind, placebo-controlled study assesses the efficacy of synergic administration of intravenous laser blood irradiation (ILBI) and etanercept in selected subtypes of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Etanercept is a tumor necrosis factor alpha blocking agent with recognized importance in JIA. Laser radiation has immunomodulatory effects in animal and human studies. Fourteen patients (Group I) received ILBI and 9 patients (Group II) received placebo laser. ILBI was performed in addition to ongoing JIA medication, including etanercept. ILBI was administrated in 3 sets of 5 consecutive daily sessions, with a 7-week interval between every set of sessions. Evaluation was performed using ACR (American College of Rheumatology) Pediatric Criteria (ACR Pedi) at study enrollment and at 10 and 20 weeks, respectively. After 10 weeks, 85.7% of the patients in Group I fulfilled Pedi 30 criteria, compared to only 55.6% of the patients in Group II. After 20 weeks, all patients in both groups had a Pedi 30 response. In Group I, 92.8% of the subjects met the Pedi 50 response, compared to only 55.6% in the placebo group. One patient in Group I responded best, fulfilling Pedi 70 criteria. If applied synergistically, ILBI and etanercept would have an increased efficacy in promoting JIA remission.
Subacute Zinc Administration and L-NAME Caused an Increase of NO, Zinc, Lipoperoxidation, and Caspase-3 during a Cerebral Hypoxia-Ischemia Process in the Rat
Authors: Blanco-Alvarez Victor Manuel , Lopez-Moreno Patricia , Soto-Rodriguez Guadalupe , Martinez-Fong Daniel , Rubio Hector , Gonzalez-Barrios Juan Antonio , Piña-Leyva Celia , Torres-Soto Maricela , Gomez-Villalobos María de Jesus , Hernandez-Baltazar Daniel , Brambila Eduardo , Eguibar José Ramon , Ugarte Araceli , Cebada Jorge , Leon-Chavez Bertha Alicia
Published: August 2013

Zinc or L-NAME administration has been shown to be protector agents, decreasing oxidative stress and cell death. However, the treatment with zinc and L-NAME by intraperitoneal injection has not been studied. The aim of our work was to study the effect of zinc and L-NAME administration on nitrosative stress and cell death. Male Wistar rats were treated with ZnCl2(2.5 mg/kg each 24 h, for 4 days) and N-ω-nitro-L-arginine-methyl ester (L-NAME, 10 mg/kg) on the day 5 (1 hour before a common carotid-artery occlusion (CCAO)). The temporoparietal cortex and hippocampus were dissected, and zinc, nitrites, and lipoperoxidation were assayed at different times. Cell death was assayed by histopathology using hematoxylin-eosin staining and caspase-3 active by immunostaining. The subacute administration of zinc before CCAO decreases the levels of zinc, nitrites, lipoperoxidation, and cell death in the late phase of the ischemia. L-NAME administration in the rats treated with zinc showed an increase of zinc levels in the early phase and increase of zinc, nitrites, and lipoperoxidation levels, cell death by necrosis, and the apoptosis in the late phase. These results suggest that the use of these two therapeutic strategies increased the injury caused by the CCAO, unlike the alone administration of zinc.
Some Aspects of Supersymmetric Field Theories with Minimal Length and Maximal Momentum
Authors: Nozari Kourosh , Moafi F. , Rezaee Balef F.
Published: August 2013

We consider a real scalar field and a Majorana fermion field to construct a supersymmetric quantum theory of free fermion fields based on the deformed Heisenberg algebra[x,p] = iℏ(1−βp+2β2p2), whereβis a deformation parameter. We present a deformed supersymmetric algebra in the presence of minimal length and maximal momentum.
Experimental Investigation on Flowability and Compaction Behavior of Spray Granulated Submicron Alumina Granules
Authors: Choudhary Abhisek , Ramavath Pandu , Biswas Papiya , Ravi Nukala , Johnson Roy
Published: August 2013

Aqueous slurry with various solid loadings (up to 40 wt%) of alumina powder (D50 = 300 nm) with suitable rheological properties were spray dried into granules. Solid loading and feed rate of the slurry are found to have a prominent effect on the shape and size distribution of granules. Powder flow measurements exhibited a cohesive index of 28.45 signifying an extremely cohesive flow due to high surface area and irregular morphology. Finer sizes though it offers high geometrical surface area it leads to more surface contacts and hence, high interparticle friction. Spherical morphology achieved through optimum spray drying parameters significantly reduced the cohesive index to 6.45 indicating free flow behavior. Compaction studies of the spray-dried granules and corresponding plot of relative density versus compaction pressure revealed an agglomerate strength of 500 MPa followed by a plateau-like behavior reaching a maximum in the relative density of 59%-60% of the theoretical values.
Screening of Most Effective Variables for Development of Gastroretentive Mucoadhesive Nanoparticles by Taguchi Design
Authors: Kharia Ankit Anand , Singhai Akhlesh Kumar
Published: August 2013

The objective of this study was the selection of the most influential variable for the preparation of gastroretentive mucoadhesive nanoparticles of acyclovir. Nanoparticles were prepared by one-step desolvation method; effect of formulation and processing variables on various response variables were studied by a Taguchi standard orthogonal array L8 design. Independent variables studied were the amount of gelatin, amount of glutaraldehyde, amount of Pluronic F-68, acetone addition rate, pH, stirring time, and stirring speed. The dependent variables studied were the particle size, polydispersity index, amount of drug released in 6 h, time required to release 60% of drug, entrapment efficiency, loading efficiency, and mucoadhesiveness. The size of all nanoparticulate formulations prepared as per the experimental design (Taguchi screening design) varied between 165 and 1610 nm, PDI between 0.360 and 1.00, bioadhesiveness between 3.959 and 11.02 g, cumulative percent drug release in 24 h between 40.74 and 72.48, entrapment efficiency between 15.70 and 83.12, and loading efficiency between 39.72 and 80.49. Pareto ranking analyses showed that the two most important factors affecting the selected responses were amount of gelatin and amount of Pluronic F-68 (P<0.05).
Parameter Estimation of Photovoltaic Models via Cuckoo Search
Authors: Ma Jieming , Ting T. O. , Man Ka Lok , Zhang Nan , Guan Sheng-Uei , Wong Prudence W. H.
Published: August 2013

Since conventional methods are incapable of estimating the parameters of Photovoltaic (PV) models with high accuracy, bioinspired algorithms have attracted significant attention in the last decade. Cuckoo Search (CS) is invented based on the inspiration of brood parasitic behavior of some cuckoo species in combination with the Lévy flight behavior. In this paper, a CS-based parameter estimation method is proposed to extract the parameters of single-diode models for commercial PV generators. Simulation results and experimental data show that the CS algorithm is capable of obtaining all the parameters with extremely high accuracy, depicted by a low Root-Mean-Squared-Error (RMSE) value. The proposed method outperforms other algorithms applied in this study.
Effects of Water Solutions on Extracting Green Tea Leaves
Authors: Huang Wen-Ying , Lin Yu-Ru , Ho Ruei-Fen , Liu Ho-Yen , Lin Yung-Sheng
Published: August 2013

This study investigates the effects of water solutions on the antioxidant content of green tea leaf extracts. Green teas prepared with tap water and distilled water were compared with respect to four antioxidant assays: total phenol content, reducing power, DMPD assay, and trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay. The results indicate that green tea prepared with distilled water exhibits higher antioxidant activity than that made with tap water. The high performance liquid chromatography showed that major constituents of green tea were found in higher concentrations in tea made with distilled water than in that made with tap water. This could be due to less calcium fixation in leaves and small water clusters. Water solutions composed of less mineralisation are more effective in promoting the quality of green tea leaf extracts.
A Comparison of the Biological Features of Prostate Cancer with (PSA+, PSMA+) Profile according to RKIP
Authors: Ben Jemaa Awatef , Bouraoui Yosra , Sallami Sataa , Nouira Yassine , Oueslati Ridha
Published: August 2013

Purpose. To investigate differences in the biological features of the most immunoexpressed prostate cancer (PC) profiles (PSA+, PSMA+) according to the RKIP.Methods. 19 PC with dominant Gleason grade ≥8 were studied. Expression of PSA, PSMA, RKIP, Raf-1, MEK-1, ERK-1, ERK-2, p-Akt (T308), p-Akt (S473), NF-κB p50, and NF-κBp65 were detected immunohistochemically.Results. Loss of RKIP in the most immunoexpressed PC (PSA+, PSMA+) profile was associated with increased levels of PSA and PSMA expression. Intensities of immunoreactions to PSA and PSMA were higher in cancer cells negative for RKIP (12.51 ± 1.6 and 34.95 ± 1.92) compared to those positive for RKIP (4.68 ± 1.11 and 28.56 ± 0.91). In parallel, missing RKIP expression in PC patients with PSA+, PSMA+ profile was connected with increased components of both Raf-1/MEK/ERK and NF-κB (p65/p50), whereas Akt is activated independently of RKIP.Conclusions. Although characterized by the same (PSA+, PSMA+) profile, PC phenotype missing the RKIP related to invasive potential and greater biological aggressiveness reflected in overexpression of components of Raf-1/MEK/ERK and NF-κB (p65/p50) in which Akt is activated independently of RKIP. Taking into account the PC phenotypes according to RKIP among PSA-PSMA profiles may improve distinguishing them from cancers that will become more aggressive and therefore adapt the therapeutic strategies in those patients.
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Sugarcane Parents in Chinese Breeding Programmes Using gSSR Markers
Authors: You Qian , Xu Liping , Zheng Yifeng , Que Youxiong
Published: August 2013

Sugarcane is the most important sugar and bioenergy crop in the world. The selection and combination of parents for crossing rely on an understanding of their genetic structures and molecular diversity. In the present study, 115 sugarcane genotypes used for parental crossing were genotyped based on five genomic simple sequence repeat marker (gSSR) loci and 88 polymorphic alleles of loci (100%) as detected by capillary electrophoresis. The values of genetic diversity parameters across the populations indicate that the genetic variation intrapopulation (90.5%) was much larger than that of interpopulation (9.5%). Cluster analysis revealed that there were three groups termed as groups I, II, and III within the 115 genotypes. The genotypes released by each breeding programme showed closer genetic relationships, except the YC series released by Hainan sugarcane breeding station. Using principle component analysis (PCA), the first and second principal components accounted for a cumulative 76% of the total variances, in which 43% were for common parents and 33% were for new parents, respectively. The knowledge obtained in this study should be useful to future breeding programs for increasing genetic diversity of sugarcane varieties and cultivars to meet the demand of sugarcane cultivation for sugar and bioenergy use.
Well-Suited Similarity Functions for Data Aggregation in Cluster-Based Underwater Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Tran Khoa Thi-Minh , Oh Seung-Hyun , Byun Jeong-Yong
Published: August 2013

This paper presents an efficient data aggregation approach for cluster-based underwater wireless sensor networks in order to prolong network lifetime. In data aggregation, an aggregator collects sensed data from surrounding nodes and transmits the aggregated data to a base station. The major goal of data aggregation is to minimize data redundancy, ensuring high data accuracy and reducing the aggregator's energy consumption. Hence, similarity functions could be useful as a part of the data aggregation process for resolving inconsistencies in collected data. Our approach is to determine and apply well-suited similarity functions for cluster-based underwater wireless sensor networks. In this paper, we show the effectiveness of similarity functions, especially the Euclidean distance and cosine distance, in reducing the packet size and minimizing the data redundancy of cluster-based underwater wireless sensor networks. Our results show that the Euclidean distance and cosine distance increase the efficiency of the network both in theory and simulation.
GlideScope and Frova Introducer for Difficult Airway Management
Authors: Ciccozzi Alessandra , Angeletti Chiara , Guetti Cristiana , Papola Roberta , Angeletti Paolo Matteo , Paladini Antonella , Varrassi Giustino , Marinangeli Franco
Published: August 2013

The introduction into clinical practice of new tools for intubation as videolaringoscopia has dramatically improved the success rate of intubation and the work of anesthesiologists in what is considered the most delicate maneuver. Nevertheless intubation difficulties may also be encountered with good anatomical visualization of glottic structures in videolaringoscopia. To overcome the obstacles that may occur both in a difficult provided intubation such as those unexpected, associated endotracheal introducer able to facilitate the passage of the endotracheal tube through the vocal cords into the trachea may be useful. We report 4 cases of difficult intubation planned and unplanned and completed successfully using the GlideScope videolaryngoscope associated with endotracheal Frova introducer.
Design and Investigation of SST/nc-Si:H/M (M = Ag, Au, Ni) and M/nc-Si:H/M Multifunctional Devices
Authors: Qasrawi A. F. , Kmail Salam M. , Assaf Samah F. , Saleh Z. M.
Published: August 2013

Hydrogenated nanocrystalline Silicon thin films prepared by the very high frequency chemical vapor deposition technique (VHF-CVD) on stainless steel (SST) substrates are used to design Schottky point contact barriers for the purpose of solar energy conversion and passive electronic component applications. In this process, the contact performance between SST and M (M = Ag, Au, and Ni) and between Ag, Au, and Ni electrodes was characterized by means of current-voltage, capacitance-voltage, and light intensity dependence of short circuit (Isc) current and open circuit voltage (Voc) of the contacts. Particularly, the devices ideality factors, barrier heights were evaluated by the Schottky method and compared to the Cheung's. Best Schottky device performance with lowest ideality factor suitable for electronic applications was observed in the SST/nc-Si:H/Ag structure. This device reflects a Voc of 229 mV with an Isc of 1.6 mA/cm2 under an illumination intensity of ~40 klux. On the other hand, the highest Isc being 9.0 mA/cm2 and the Voc of 53.1 mV were observed for Ni/nc-Si:H/Au structure. As these voltages represent the maximum biasing voltage for some of the designed devices, the SST/nc-Si:H/M and M/nc-Si:H/M can be regarded as multifunctional self-energy that provided electronic devices suitable for active or passive applications.
Novel Neighbor Selection Method to Improve Data Sparsity Problem in Collaborative Filtering
Authors: Kwon Hyeong-Joon , Hong Kwang Seok
Published: August 2013

Memory-based collaborative filtering selects the top- k neighbors with high rank similarity in order to predict a rating for an item that the target user has not yet experienced. The most common traditional neighbor selection method for memory-based collaborative filtering is priority similarity. In this paper, we analyze various problems with the traditional neighbor selection method and propose a novel method to improve upon them. The proposed method minimizes the similarity evaluation errors with the existing neighbor selection method by considering the number of common items between two objects. The method is effective for the practical application of collaborative filtering. For validation, we analyze and compare experimental results between an existing method and the proposed method. We were able to confirm that the proposed method can improve the prediction accuracy of memory-based collaborative filtering by neighbor selection that prioritizes the number of common items.
Development of a Detailed Volumetric Finite Element Model of the Spine to Simulate Surgical Correction of Spinal Deformities
Authors: Driscoll Mark , Mac-Thiong Jean-Marc , Labelle Hubert , Parent Stefan
Published: August 2013

A large spectrum of medical devices exists; it aims to correct deformities associated with spinal disorders. The development of a detailed volumetric finite element model of the osteoligamentous spine would serve as a valuable tool to assess, compare, and optimize spinal devices. Thus the purpose of the study was to develop and initiate validation of a detailed osteoligamentous finite element model of the spine with simulated correction from spinal instrumentation. A finite element of the spine from T1 to L5 was developed using properties and geometry from the published literature and patient data. Spinal instrumentation, consisting of segmental translation of a scoliotic spine, was emulated. Postoperative patient and relevant published data of intervertebral disc stress, screw/vertebra pullout forces, and spinal profiles was used to evaluate the models validity. Intervertebral disc and vertebral reaction stresses respected publishedin vivo,ex vivo, andin silicovalues. Screw/vertebra reaction forces agreed with accepted pullout threshold values. Cobb angle measurements of spinal deformity following simulated surgical instrumentation corroborated with patient data. This computational biomechanical analysis validated a detailed volumetric spine model. Future studies seek to exploit the model to explore the performance of corrective spinal devices.
Effects of Acupuncture on 1-Chloro-2,4-dinitrochlorobenzene-Induced Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Park Ji-Yeun , Park Hi-Joon , Choi You Yeon , Kim Mi Hye , Kim Seung-Nam , Yang Woong Mo
Published: August 2013

Though the effects of acupuncture in atopic dermatitis have been proven in clinical studies, its mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we investigate the effectiveness and mechanism of action for acupuncture treatment on the LI11 meridian point for treatment of allergic contact dermatitis. BALB/c mice received 1-chloro-2,4-dinitrobenzene (DNCB) application to induce skin inflammation. Acupuncture treatment on LI11 significantly inhibited cutaneous hyperplasia, serum IgE levels, and expression of proinflammatory cytokine (IL-4, IL-8, and TNF-α) mRNA and NF-κB, ERK1/2, JNK, and p38 proteins. Acupuncture treatment of local points also inhibited cutaneous hyperplasia and serum IgE levels; however, it was not effective in regulating proinflammatory cytokines and proteins. In addition, LI11 treatment is more effective at reducing serum IgE levels and pro-inflammatory cytokines and proteins than local point treatment. These results suggest that acupuncture treatment is effective in alleviating allergic contact dermatitis by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and proteins.
Adoptive T-Cell Therapy for Cancer: Boutique Therapy or Treatment Modality?
Authors: Yee Cassian
Published: August 2013

Adoptive cellular therapy, involving the ex vivo enrichment and expansion of antigen-specific immune cells for adoptive transfer, has emerged as an increasingly effective modality for the treatment of patients with advanced cancer refractory to conventional therapy. Clin Cancer Res; 19(17); 4550–2. ©2013 AACR.
Acute Infection Induces a Metastatic Niche: A Double Menace for Cancer Patients
Authors: Smith Heath A. , Kang Yibin
Published: August 2013

Tumor-derived factors can induce a premetastatic niche, yet little is known about how metastatic microenvironments are influenced by external insults, such as acute infections commonly seen in patients with cancer. New findings reveal increased metastasis to the lung after acute bacterial infection via the CXCR4/ubiquitin axis, suggesting new targets for antimetastasis therapeutics. Clin Cancer Res; 19(17); 4547–9. ©2013 AACR.
Liver Fatty Acid-Binding Protein (L-Fabp) Modifies Intestinal Fatty Acid Composition and Adenoma Formation in ApcMin/+ Mice
Authors: Dharmarajan Sekhar , Newberry Elizabeth P. , Montenegro Grace , Nalbantoglu ILKe , Davis Victoria R. , Clanahan Michael J. , Blanc Valerie , Xie Yan , Luo Jianyang , Fleshman James W. , Kennedy Susan , Davidson Nicholas O.
Published: August 2013

Evidence suggests a relationship between dietary fat intake, obesity, and colorectal cancer, implying a role for fatty acid metabolism in intestinal tumorigenesis that is incompletely understood. Liver fatty acid-binding protein (L-Fabp), a dominant intestinal fatty acid-binding protein, regulates intestinal fatty acid trafficking and metabolism, and L-Fabp deletion attenuates diet-induced obesity. Here, we examined whether changes in intestinal fatty acid metabolism following L-Fabp deletion modify adenoma development in ApcMin/+ mice. Compound L-Fabp−/−ApcMin/+ mice were generated and fed a 10% fat diet balanced equally between saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fat. L-Fabp−/−ApcMin/+ mice displayed significant reductions in adenoma number and total polyp area compared with ApcMin/+controls, reflecting a significant shift in distribution toward smaller polyps. Adenomas from L-Fabp−/−ApcMin/+ mice exhibited reductions in cellular proliferation, high-grade dysplasia, and nuclear β-catenin translocation. Intestinal fatty acid content was increased in L-Fabp−/−ApcMin/+ mice, and lipidomic profiling of intestinal mucosa revealed significant shifts to polyunsaturated fatty acid species with reduced saturated fatty acid species. L-Fabp−/−ApcMin/+ mice also showed corresponding changes in mRNA expression of enzymes involved in fatty acid elongation and desaturation. Furthermore, adenomas from L-Fabp−/−ApcMin/+ mice displayed significant reductions in mRNA abundance of nuclear hormone receptors involved in cellular proliferation and in enzymes involved in lipogenesis. These findings collectively implicate L-Fabp as an important genetic modifier of intestinal tumorigenesis, and identify fatty acid trafficking and metabolic compartmentalization as an important pathway linking dietary fat intake, obesity, and intestinal tumor formation. Cancer Prev Res; 6(10); 1026–37. ©2013 AACR.
Effects of Endothelial Dysfunction on Residual Platelet Aggregability After Dual Antiplatelet Therapy With Aspirin and Clopidogrel in Patients With Stable Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: Fujisue Koichiro , Sugiyama Seigo , Ono Takamichi , Matsuzawa Yasushi , Akiyama Eiichi , Sugamura Koichi , Matsubara Junichi , Kurokawa Hirofumi , Kaikita Koichi , Iwashita Satomi , Sumida Hitoshi , Hokimoto Seiji , Oniki Kentaro , Nakagawa Kazuko , Matsui Kunihiko , Ogawa Hisao
Published: August 2013

Background—

Dual antiplatelet therapy with aspirin and clopidogrel is widely used in patients with coronary stents. High residual platelet reactivity (high RPR) after dual antiplatelet therapy is associated with increased cardiovascular events. Endothelial function could affect platelet reactivity in vivo. We hypothesized that endothelial dysfunction could be associated with high RPR after dual antiplatelet therapy in patients with stable coronary artery disease.

Methods and Results—

We screened patients with stable coronary artery disease for cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C19 genotypes and enrolled 103 patients who lacked CYP2C19*2 or *3 loss-of-function allele to minimize the effect of this gene on high RPR. All patients received aspirin (100 mg/d) and clopidogrel (75 mg/d for long-term treatment or a loading dose of 300 mg) before the following tests. Platelet aggregability was assessed as P2Y12 reaction unit using the VerifyNow System. High RPR was defined as P2Y12 reaction unit ≥230. Peripheral endothelial function was expressed as reactive hyperemia index using reactive hyperemia peripheral arterial tonometry. Fifty-three patients exhibited high RPR. High RPR patients were significantly older, had higher levels of B-type natriuretic peptide, and were predominantly hypertensive compared with non–high RPR patients. Reactive hyperemia index was significantly lower in high RPR patients (0.46±0.15) compared with non–high RPR patients (0.61±0.18;
P
<0.001). Linear regression analysis demonstrated significant negative correlation between reactive hyperemia index and P2Y12 reaction unit (
r
=−0.32;
P
=0.001). Multivariable logistic regression analysis identified reactive hyperemia index as an independent and significant determinant of high RPR (odds ratio, 0.55; 95% confidence interval, 0.39–0.78;
P
=0.001).

Conclusions—

In patients with stable coronary artery disease, endothelial function was significantly impaired in high RPR patients. Endothelial dysfunction is independently correlated with high RPR after dual antiplatelet therapy.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.umin.ac.jp/ctr
. Unique identifier: UMIN000008239.
Prehospital Unassisted Assessment of Stroke Severity Using Telemedicine
Authors: Van Hooff Robbert-Jan , Cambron Melissa , Van Dyck Rita , De Smedt Ann , Moens Maarten , Espinoza Alexis Valenzuela , Van de Casseye Rohny , Convents Andre , Hubloue Ives , De Keyser Jacques , Brouns Raf
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose—

We evaluated the feasibility and the reliability of remote stroke severity quantification in the prehospital setting using the Unassisted TeleStroke Scale (UTSS) via a telestroke ambulance system and a fourth-generation mobile network.

Methods—

The technical feasibility and the reliability of the UTSS were studied in healthy volunteers mimicking 41 stroke syndromes during ambulance transportation.

Results—

Except for 1 issue, high-quality telestroke assessment was feasible in all scenarios. The mean examination time for the UTSS was 3.1 minutes (SD, 0.4). The UTSS showed excellent intrarater and interrater variability (ρ=0.98 and 0.97;
P
<0.001), as well as excellent internal consistency and rater agreement. Adequate concurrent validity can be derived from the strong correlation between the UTSS and the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (ρ=0.90;
P
<0.001).

Conclusions—

Remote assessment of stroke severity in fast-moving ambulances using a system dedicated to prehospital telemedicine, 4G technology, and the UTSS is feasible and reliable.
Susceptibility-Weighted Imaging is More Reliable Than T2*-Weighted Gradient-Recalled Echo MRI for Detecting Microbleeds
Authors: Cheng Ah-Ling , Batool Saima , McCreary Cheryl R. , Lauzon M.L. , Frayne Richard , Goyal Mayank , Smith Eric E.
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose—

We investigated the sensitivity and reliability of MRI susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) compared with routine MRI T2*-weighted gradient-recalled echo (GRE) for cerebral microbleed (CMB) detection.

Methods—

We used data from a prospective study of cerebral amyloid angiopathy (n=9; mean age, 71±8.3) and healthy non–cerebral amyloid angiopathy controls (n=22; mean age, 68±6.3). Three raters (labeled 1, 2, and 3) independently interpreted the GRE and SWI sequences (using the phase-filtered magnitude image) blinded to clinical information.

Results—

In 9 cerebral amyloid angiopathy cases, the raters identified 1146 total CMBs on GRE and 1432 CMBs on SWI. In 22 healthy control subjects, the raters identified ≥1 CMBs in 6/22 on GRE (total 9 CMBs) and 5/22 on SWI (total 19 CMBs). Among cerebral amyloid angiopathy cases, the reliability between raters for CMB counts was good for SWI (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.87) but only moderate for GRE (intraclass correlation coefficient, 0.52). In controls, agreement on the presence or absence of CMBs in controls was moderate to good on both SWI (κ coefficient ranged from 0.57 to 0.74 across the 3 combinations of rater pairs) and GRE (κ range, 0.31 to 0.70). A review of 114 hypointensities identified as possible CMBs indicated that increased detection and reliability on SWI was related to both increased contrast and higher resolution, allowing better discrimination of CMBs from the background and better anatomic differentiation from pial vessels.

Conclusions—

SWI confers greater reliability as well as greater sensitivity for CMB detection compared with GRE, and should be the preferred sequence for quantifying CMB counts.
The Relationship between Coping and Spiritual Well-Being in a Group of South African Adolescents
Authors: Moodley Trevor , Beukes Roelf B. I. , Esterhuyse Karel G. F.
Published: August 2013

Abstract

Using Scheffé tests, this study investigated any statistically meaningful association between coping and spiritual well-being in a group of South African adolescents from schools in Cape Town. The ACOPE instrument was used to measure coping in 12 coping strategies. Spiritual well-being was measured by the SWBQ instrument, which gives a global score and a score for each spiritual well-being domain. The results indicated a significant positive association, suggesting an important link between seeking spiritual support and transcendental spiritual well-being. In addition, a significantly positive association with medium effect, suggesting moderate practical importance, was found for developing social support and communal spiritual well-being.