bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-idempotent intersection types and strong normalisation
Authors: Bernadet Alexis , Lengrand Stéphane Jean
Published: July 2014

We present a typing system with non-idempotent intersection types, typing a
term syntax covering three different calculi: the pure {\lambda}-calculus, the
calculus with explicit substitutions {\lambda}S, and the calculus with explicit
substitutions, contractions and weakenings {\lambda}lxr. In each of the three
calculi, a term is typable if and only if it is strongly normalising, as it is
the case in (many) systems with idempotent intersections. Non-idempotency
brings extra information into typing trees, such as simple bounds on the
longest reduction sequence reducing a term to its normal form. Strong
normalisation follows, without requiring reducibility techniques. Using this,
we revisit models of the {\lambda}-calculus based on filters of intersection
types, and extend them to {\lambda}S and {\lambda}lxr. Non-idempotency
simplifies a methodology, based on such filter models, that produces modular
proofs of strong normalisation for well-known typing systems (e.g. System F).
We also present a filter model by means of orthogonality techniques, i.e. as an
instance of an abstract notion of orthogonality model formalised in this paper
and inspired by classical realisability. Compared to other instances based on
terms (one of which rephrases a now standard proof of strong normalisation for
the {\lambda}-calculus), the instance based on filters is shown to be better at
proving strong normalisation results for {\lambda}S and {\lambda}lxr. Finally,
the bounds on the longest reduction sequence, read off our typing trees, are
refined into an exact measure, read off a specific typing tree (called
principal); in each of the three calculi, a specific reduction sequence of such
length is identified. In the case of the {\lambda}-calculus, this complexity
result is, for longest reduction sequences, the counterpart of de Carvalho's
result for linear head-reduction sequences.
Satisfiability Games for Branching-Time Logics
Authors: Friedmann Oliver , Lange Martin , Latte Markus
Published: July 2014

The satisfiability problem for branching-time temporal logics like CTL*, CTL
and CTL+ has important applications in program specification and verification.
Their computational complexities are known: CTL* and CTL+ are complete for
doubly exponential time, CTL is complete for single exponential time. Some
decision procedures for these logics are known; they use tree automata,
tableaux or axiom systems. In this paper we present a uniform game-theoretic
framework for the satisfiability problem of these branching-time temporal
logics. We define satisfiability games for the full branching-time temporal
logic CTL* using a high-level definition of winning condition that captures the
essence of well-foundedness of least fixpoint unfoldings. These winning
conditions form formal languages of \omega-words. We analyse which kinds of
deterministic {\omega}-automata are needed in which case in order to recognise
these languages. We then obtain a reduction to the problem of solving parity or
B\"uchi games. The worst-case complexity of the obtained algorithms matches the
known lower bounds for these logics. This approach provides a uniform, yet
complexity-theoretically optimal treatment of satisfiability for branching-time
temporal logics. It separates the use of temporal logic machinery from the use
of automata thus preserving a syntactical relationship between the input
formula and the object that represents satisfiability, i.e. a winning strategy
in a parity or B\"uchi game. The games presented here work on a Fischer-Ladner
closure of the input formula only. Last but not least, the games presented here
come with an attempt at providing tool support for the satisfiability problem
of complex branching-time logics like CTL* and CTL+.
Implicit Resolution
Authors: Wang Zi Chao
Published: July 2014

Let \Omega be a set of unsatisfiable clauses, an implicit resolution
refutation of \Omega is a circuit \beta with a resolution proof {\alpha} of the
statement "\beta describes a correct tree-like resolution refutation of
\Omega". We show that such system is p-equivalent to Extended Frege. More
generally, let {\tau} be a tautology, a [P, Q]-proof of {\tau} is a pair
(\alpha,\beta) s.t. \alpha is a P-proof of the statement "\beta is a circuit
describing a correct Q-proof of \tau". We prove that [EF,P] \leq p [R,P] for
arbitrary Cook-Reckhow proof system P.
Synthesis, characterization and pharmacological evaluation of substituted phenoxy acetamide derivatives
Authors: Rani Priyanka , Pal Dilip , Hegde Rahul , Hashim Syed
Published: July 2014

A novel series of 2-(substituted
phenoxy)-N-(1,7,7-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-yl)acetamide and
N-(2-bromocyclohexyl)-2-(substituted phenoxy)acetamide derivatives having
cyclohexyl nucleus as common in both types were synthesized and assessed for
their anti-inflammatory activity by a carrageenan induced rat paw oedema
method, analgesic activity by Eddy?s hot plate method and antipyretic
activity by brewer?s yeast induced pyrexia method. All the novel derivatives
have been synthesized by the reaction of camphor and similar ketone having
cyclohexane nucleus (e.g. 2-bromocyclohexanone) with ammonium carbonate and
formic acid resulting in the formation of aromatic amines (1a-b). These
amines on further chloroacetylation with chloroacetylchloride give compounds
(2a-b). Compounds (2a-b) are converted to 2-(substituted
phenoxy)-N-(1,7,7-trimethylbicyclo[2.2.1]heptan-2-yl) acetamide and
N-(2-bromocyclohexyl)-2-(substituted phenoxy)acetamide derivatives on
treatment with substituted phenol. Among the series 3a-f, 3i, 3k, 3l
compounds showed significant anti-inflammatory activity as compared to the
standard drug diclofenac sodium and also compound 3a-f, 3h, 3j, 3k exhibit
significant analgesic activity as compared to the standard drug. Compounds
3a-f and 3k showed antipyretic activity nearly to the standard drug
indomethacin. Compounds 3a-f and 3k possess anti-inflammatory, analgesic and
antipyretic activities near to the standard.
Multi criteria analysis with regards to selecting optimal absorbent supply option to Ugljevik thermal power plant
Authors: Stojanovic Cvjetko
Published: July 2014

Concept of sustainable development implies an effective long-term
development, both in developed and developing countries, and must be based on
three pillars: environmental protection, economic development and social
cohesion, both on the state and on a global level. This clear definition of
sustainable development suggests a necessity of a combined action on
environmental protection, economic development and the achievement of social
cohesion. As a rule, by investing in environmental protection projects, power
generation companies implement previously defined growth targets, development
policies, and business strategies. Investment projects for the given coal
type are considered as the capital ones, for they use great financial
resources, significant resources and are long-lasting. The companies
untertake investing in such projects to be affirmed in the new business
environment, adapt to anticipated changes or to overcome the handicaps of
their current position and thus adjust their production capabilities with the
opportunities offered by the market. All the above implies that
environmentally based capital project investments are the prerequisite of
existence, sustainable growth and the acquisition of competitive advantages.
However, investing in such projects is a very complex process comprised of
multidimensional testing activities of all relevant determinants of future
conditions and changes that the project entails. Bearing in mind that such
projects are associated with the company's strategic development objectives,
in the realization of such projects all the internal and external factors of
development shall be taken into account, as well as a number of constraints
arising from the socio-economic environment.
Gender aspects of public urban space: Analysis of the names of Belgrade streets
Authors: Sekulic Nada
Published: July 2014

The street city network and the street names represent structural public
symbolic system which is characterized by readability. This readability gives
identity; the city is clearly divided in significant and less significant
zones used for different purposes with different levels of communicativity.
It is explicitly connected with public memory evocation-with collective
memory and the state ideology. Having that in mind, the names of streets in
Belgrade given by female names will be analyzed. It is analyzed how it is in
structural manner the street network in Belgrade on symbolic level (through
the names of streets and their distribution in the street network structure)
expresses gender based distribution of power in the public space-using
relation between the center and periphery in certain municipalities and the
city as a whole. Investigating different city zones, it can be showed
?rationalization of political domination? - the parts of the city where the
residencies of foreign countries, embassies and consulates are situated,
representative and private, as well as zones which belong to different social
stratums - higher and lower layers, which are also the zones of different
communicative capacity (determinated by the structure of street network).
This analysis clearly points out on distinctive, even though implicitly
inherited difference in power distribution and gender based standings in
social organization of the space. Streets which got the name by women are
very few and they occupy marginal positions in the street network structure -
they are mostly peripheral, smaller streets, which are in high percent dead
end streets. In the same time, the dynamics of the change of the street names
in the last decade is not in favor of the names from National Liberation Army
(NOB). Street name change affirms historical females characters from XIX
century, expressing on the direct way the ideological change and the need of
classes and stratums which tend to establish their social position today and
their influence on the changing the view on history in order to consolidate
their own legitimization.
Other and different: Maribor in search of its new (hi)story
Authors: Trcek Franc
Published: July 2014

Regional centers of post-transitional societies are becoming increasingly
involved in global competition between cities and regions, while at the same
time experiencing setbacks in development, caused by the centralization of
decision making and development in State capitals. In the case of Slovenia,
all of this is linked to the reform of local government, the poor execution
of which has allowed regional political and economic elites to establish and
uphold intransparent, often kleptocrat connections. Our case study analyzes
the failed city branding strategies of the City Municipality of Maribor,
which have contributed to yet another collapse of the city and its
surrounding region, and triggered the Maribor uprising. Our conclusion offers
an alternative approach to conceiving of a new urban story, focusing on local
and regional stakeholders.
Economic perspective of hybrid wind-diesel technology for commercial loads of Dhahran Saudi Arabia: A step towards sustainable future
Authors: Shaahid S.M.
Published: July 2014

The governments world-wide are deliberating to promote renewable energy
sources such as wind to mitigate increasing demand of energy and to overcome
effects of pollution due to to use of fossil fuels. Integration of wind
turbine generators (WTG) with the diesel plants is pursued widely to reduce
dependence on fossil-fuels and to reduce carbon emissions. Literature
indicates that commercial/residential buildings in the Kingdom of Saudi
Arabia (K.S.A) consume an estimated 10 - 40% of the total electric energy
generated. The aim of this study is to analyze wind-speed data of Dhahran
(East-Coast, K.S.A.) to assess the economic feasibility of utilizing hybrid
wind-diesel power systems to meet the load requirements of a typical
commercial building (with annual electrical energy demand of 620,000 kWh).
The monthly average wind speeds range from 3.3 to 5.6 m/s. The hybrid
systems simulated consist of different combinations of 100 kW commercial WTG
supplemented with diesel generators. NREL?s (HOMER Energy?s) HOMER software
has been employed to perform the techno-economic analysis. The simulation
results indicate that for a hybrid system comprising of 100 kW wind capacity
together with 175 kW diesel system, the wind penetration (at 37 m
hub-height, with 0% annual capacity shortage) is 25%. The cost of generating
energy (COE, $/kWh) from this hybrid wind-diesel system has been found to be
0.121 $/kWh (assuming diesel fuel price of 0.1$/liter). The study exhibits
that for a given hybrid configuration, the number of operational hours of
diesel gensets decreases with increase in wind farm capacity. Emphasis has
also been placed on wind penetration, un-met load, energy production and
COE, excess electricity generation, percentage fuel savings and reduction in
carbon emissions (relative to diesel-only situation) of different hybrid
systems, cost break-down of wind-diesel systems, COE of different hybrid
systems, etc.
Negative Regulation of DsbA-L Gene Expression by the Transcription Factor Sp1
Authors: Fang Qichen , Yang Wenjing , Li Huating , Hu Wenxiu , Chen Lihui , Jiang Shan , Dong Kun , Song Qianqian , Wang Chen , Chen Shuo , Liu Feng , Jia Weiping
Published: July 2014

Disulfide-bond A oxidoreductase-like protein (DsbA-L) possesses beneficial effects such as promoting adiponectin multimerization and stability, increasing insulin sensitivity, and enhancing energy metabolism. The expression level of DsbA-L is negatively correlated with obesity in mice and humans, but the underlying mechanisms remain unknown. To address this question, we generated reporter gene constructs containing the promoter sequence of the mouse DsbA-L gene. Deletion analysis showed that the proximal promoter of mouse DsbA-L is located between −186 and −34 bp relative to the transcription start site. In silico analysis identified a putative Sp1 transcription factor binding site in the first intron of the DsbA-L gene. Electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis indicated that Sp1 bound to this intron region in vitro and in intact cells. Overexpression of Sp1 or suppressing Sp1 expression by siRNA reduced or increased DsbA-L promoter activity, respectively. The binding activity of Sp1 was gradually decreased during 3T3-L1 cell differentiation and was significantly increased in adipose tissues of obese mice. Our results identify Sp1 as an inhibitor of DsbA-L gene transcription, and the Sp1-mediated inhibition of DsbA-L gene expression may provide a mechanism underlying obesity-induced adiponectin downregulation and insulin resistance.
Effects of Weight Loss, Weight Cycling, and Weight Loss Maintenance on Diabetes Incidence and Change in Cardiometabolic Traits in the Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Delahanty Linda M. , Pan Qing , Jablonski Kathleen A. , Aroda Vanita R. , Watson Karol E. , Bray George A. , Kahn Steven E. , Florez Jose C. , Perreault Leigh , Franks Paul W. ,   for the Diabetes Prevention Program Research Group
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE

This study examined specific measures of weight loss in relation to incident diabetes and improvement in cardiometabolic risk factors.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

This prospective, observational study analyzed nine weight measures, characterizing baseline weight, short- versus long-term weight loss, short- versus long-term weight regain, and weight cycling, within the Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) lifestyle intervention arm (n = 1,000) for predictors of incident diabetes and improvement in cardiometabolic risk factors over 2 years.

RESULTS

Although weight loss in the first 6 months was protective of diabetes (hazard ratio [HR] 0.94 per kg, 95% CI 0.90, 0.98; P < 0.01) and cardiometabolic risk factors (P < 0.01), weight loss from 0 to 2 years was the strongest predictor of reduced diabetes incidence (HR 0.90 per kg, 95% CI 0.87, 0.93; P < 0.01) and cardiometabolic risk factor improvement (e.g., fasting glucose: β = −0.57 mg/dL per kg, 95% CI −0.66, −0.48; P < 0.01). Weight cycling (defined as number of 5-lb [2.25-kg] weight cycles) ranged 0–6 times per participant and was positively associated with incident diabetes (HR 1.33, 95% CI 1.12, 1.58; P < 0.01), fasting glucose (β = 0.91 mg/dL per cycle; P = 0.02), HOMA-IR (β = 0.25 units per cycle; P = 0.04), and systolic blood pressure (β = 0.94 mmHg per cycle; P = 0.01). After adjustment for baseline weight, the effect of weight cycling remained statistically significant for diabetes risk (HR 1.22, 95% CI 1.02, 1.47; P = 0.03) but not for cardiometabolic traits.

CONCLUSIONS

Two-year weight loss was the strongest predictor of reduced diabetes risk and improvements in cardiometabolic traits.
Honesty–Humility in Contemporary Students: Manipulations of Self-Image by Inflated IQ Estimations
Authors: Kajonius P. J.
Published: July 2014

The HEXACO model offers a complement to the Big Five model, including a sixth factor, Honesty–Humility, and its four facets (Sincerity, Fairness, Greed-avoidance, and Modesty). The four facets of Honesty–Humility and three indicators of intelligence (one performance-based cognitive ability test, one self-estimated academic potential, and one self-report of previous IQ test results) were assessed in students entering higher education ( N= 187). A significant negative correlation was observed between Honesty–Humility and self-reported intelligence ( r =−.37), most evident in the Modesty facet. These results may be interpreted as tendencies of exaggeration, using a theoretical frame of psychological image-management, concluding that the Honesty–Humility trait captures students' self-ambitions, particularly within the context of an individualistic, competitive culture such as Sweden.
EFFECT OF TWO DIFFERENT CRYOGENIC TREATED WIRES IN WIRE ELECTRICAL DISCHARGE MACHINING OF AISI D3 DIE STEEL
Authors: Singh Navjot , Kumar Parlad , Goyal Khushdeep
Published: July 2014

In this experimental investigation cryogenically treated zinc coated diffused brass wire and cryogenically treated plain brass wire have been used as cutting tool. In this experimentation AISI D3 die steel has been taken work piece. The input process parameters considered are pulse width, time between two pulses, wire mechanical tension and wire feed rate. Taguchis L9 orthogonal array has been used for design of experiments. The process performance is measured in terms of optimization of material removal rate. After performing the experiment, results of both wires have been compared. It is found that the cryogenically treated zinc coated diffused brass wire gives good material removal rate as compare to cryogenically treated plain brass wire.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jme.v43i2.17827
Problems of Sick Industries  Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Hoque A.K.M. Solayman , Biswas S.K.
Published: July 2014

The problem of industries becoming sick in recent years, both in public and private sectors inBangladesh and also in some cases in some other developing and underdeveloped countries, has turned to bealarming. Although the causes for closure or divestment might be many but in most of the cases continued lossplayed a major role in industries becoming sick. Thus the problem of industries becoming sick deserves to betreated more seriously at Government policy level, and also by the researchers in academic and industrialarena, as it is related to the economy and development of a country. Every industry can be seen as a systemworking in diversified environment. It operates under the influence of many external and internal factors.Various combinations of external and internal factors are responsible for industries to becoming sick. But thesetoo vary from country to country, economy-to-economy, etc. It can be said for surely that the causes forindustries becoming sick shall not necessarily be similar in under-developed, developing and developedcountries. In this paper an attempt has been made to identify the causes of industries becoming sick inBangladesh and to show how far the application of the theories and principles of Production and OperationsManagement play a role in the prevention of industries becoming sick. No attempt has been made here todiscuss and even to analyze the causes for industries becoming sick related to industrial policy of the country,legal and other related rules and regulations, industrial competitions, influence of local politics, open marketeconomy, etc.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jme.v43i2.17831
ANALYSIS OF ORDER OF STRESS SINGULARITY AT A VERTEX IN 3D TRANSVERSELY ISOTROPIC PIEZOELECTRIC DISSIMILAR BONDED JOINTS
Authors: Islam Md. Shahidul , Kader Md. Golam , Uddin M. M. Kamal , Ahmed Mohiuddin
Published: July 2014

The order of singularity near the vertex of bonded joints is one of the main factors responsible fordebonding under mechanical or thermal loading. The distribution of stress singularity field near the vertex ofbonded joints is very important to maintain the reliability of intelligent materials. In this paper, order of stresssingularity at vertex in 3D transversely isotropic piezoelectric dissimilar bonded joints is analyzed. Eigenanalysis based on FEM is used for stress singularity field analysis of piezoelectric bonded joints. The eigenequation is used for calculating the order of stress singularity, and the angular function. The numerical resultshows that the angular functions have large value near the interface edge than the inner portion of the joint.Therefore, there is a possibility to debond and delamination may occur at the interface edge of the piezoelectricbonded joints due to the higher stress and electric displacement concentration at the free edge.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jme.v44i1.19490
NUMERICAL SOLUTION OF TEMPERATURE DEPENDENT THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY ON MHD FREE CONVECTION FLOW WITH JOULE HEATING ALONG A VERTICAL WAVY SURFACE
Authors: Parveen N. , Alim M. A.
Published: July 2014

Temperature dependent thermal conductivity on magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) free convective flow of viscous incompressible fluid with Joule heating along a uniformly heated vertical wavy surface has been investigated numerically. The governing nonlinear boundary layer equations are mapped into a domain of a vertical flat plate and solved by an implicit finite difference method known as Keller-box scheme. The skin friction coefficient, the rate of heat transfer in terms of local Nusselt number, the stream lines and the isotherms are reported for different parameter combinations. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jme.v44i1.19497
Fe-Ni ALLOY ELECTRODEPOSITION FROM SIMPLE AND COMPLEX TYPE SULFATE ELECTROLYTES CONTAINING Ni/Fe RATIO OF 1 AND 12
Authors: Moniruzzaman M. , Shorowordi K.M. , Azam A. , Taufique M.F.N.
Published: July 2014

Iron-nickel (Fe-Ni) alloy electrodeposition has been conducted from simple and complex baths having Ni/Fe ratio of 1 and 12. The applied current density varies from 30 to 100 mA/cm2. The coating composition, morphology and microhardness are measured and characterized by SEM/EDX and Shimadzu microhardness tester. The percentage of Ni in the coating increases with increasing current density and the Ni/Fe ratio of electrolytes which is supported by the alloy deposition principle. Fine grained and smooth coating without microcracking is obtained from the complex baths. Complexing agents are supposed to reduce the deposit stress developed during electrodeposition. Increase in Ni/Fe ratio in the bath as well as current density results in decreasing grain size of the deposits. High current density is believed to give rise to a high degree of adatoms at the electrode surface and high degree of adatoms decreases the grain size. Microhardness of the coating increases with the increase of bath Ni/Fe ratio as well as current density of electrodeposition. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jme.v44i1.19498
Study of Voiding Obstruction in Physiological Phimosis
Authors: Islam Shahnoor , Morshed AKM Amirul , Hoque Shafiqul
Published: July 2014

Background: There are many circumcisions done by the surgeons due to physiological phimosis which need no intervention. General practitioners inappropriately refer those cases due to fear of obstructed voiding.Materials & Methods: From July 2005 to April 2007 total 33 boys with physiological phimosis were assessed in BSMMU.Among them 20 cases were without ballooning and 13 cases with ballooning. All the boys had upper tract and bladder USG followed by uroflowmetry and USG determined postvoid residual urine volume. Data were compared between boys with and without ballooning of foreskin.Results: In all 33 boys with physiological phimosis completed uroflowmetry and USG. Ballooning of the foreskin was present in 13 boys (mean age 22.08 months range from 18 to 25 months) and non ballooning were 20 (mean age- 22.7 months range from 18 to 28 months). Upper tract USG and bladder wall thickness were normal in all boys. The mean Maximum flow rate (Q max) was not significantly different in boys with ballooning and those with non ballooning (mean 8.4ml/s maxi-10.3 mini-6.7-) vs (8.5 ml/s, maxi-10.7,mini -6.7). In addition all Qmax values were within normal range. The two groups had comparable mean PVR (0 .92 ml SD-0.9, range -0 to7) vs (.85 ml SD-0.8 range 0 to 8). Conclusions: The non-invasive assessment of voiding efficiency in boys with physiological phimosis with or without ballooning of foreskin showed no evidence of obstructed voiding.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v1i2.19530
To Manage Infantile Hypertrophic Pyloric Stenosis by "Double-Y Pyloromyotomy" is a better Surgical Approach
Authors: Ali Md. Ansar , Hasina Kaniz , Islam Shahnoor , Huq Md. Ashraf Ul , Alam Md. Mahbub-Ul , Mondal Susankar Kumar
Published: July 2014

Background: Different treatment modalities and procedures have been tried for the management of infantile hypertrophic pyloric stenosis. But surgery remains the mainstay for management of IHPS. Ramstedts pyloromyotomy was described almost over a hundred years ago and to date remains the surgical technique of choice. An alternative and better technique is the double-Y pyloromyotomy, which offer better results for management of this common condition.Methods: A prospective comparative interventional study of 40 patients with IHPS was carried out over a period of 2 years from July 2008 to July 2010. The patients were divided into 2 equal groups of 20 patients in each. The study was designed that all patients selected for study were optimized preoperatively regarding to hydration, acid-base status and electrolytes imbalance. All surgeries were performed after obtaining informed consent. Standard preoperative preparation and postoperative feeding regimes were used. The patients were operated on an alternate basis, i.e., one patient by Double-Y Pyloromyotomy(DY) and the next by aRamstedts Pyloromyotomy (RP). Data on patient demographics, operative time, anesthesia complications, postoperative complications including vomiting and weight gain were collected. Patients were followed up for a period of 3 months postoperatively. Statistical assessments were done by using t test.Results: From July 2008 through July 2010, fourty patients were finally analyzed for this study. Any statistical differences were observed in patient population regarding age, sex, weight at presentation, symptoms and clinical condition including electrolytes imbalance and acid-base status were recorded. Significant differences were found in postoperative vomiting and weight gain. Data of post operative vomiting and weight gain in both groups were collected. Vomiting in double-Y(DY) pyloromyotomy group (1.21 ± 0.45days) vs Ramstedts pyloromyotomy (RP) group(3.03 ± 0.37days) p= 0.0001.Weight gain after 1st 10 days DY vs RP is ( 298 ± 57.94 gm vs193±19.8 gm p=0.0014), after 1 month (676.67±149.84 gm vs 466.67 ± 127.71 gm, p=0.0001), after 2months (741.33± 278.74 gm vs 490±80.62 gm, p=0.002) and after 3 months (582±36.01gm vs 453.33±51.64 gm, p=0.0001).No long-term complications were reported and no re-do yloromyotomy was needed.Conclusion: The double-Y pyloromyotomy seems to be a better technique for the surgical management of IHPS. It may offer a better functional outcome in term of postoperative vomiting and weight gain.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v1i2.19532
Vaccination in Pregnancy
Authors: Nargis Shamim Fatema , Rahman Md. Shahinur
Published: July 2014

Routine vaccines that generally are safe to administer during pregnancy include diphtheria, tetanus, influenza, and hepatitis B, Other vaccines such as meningococcal and rabis, may be considered, Vaccines that are contraindicated because of the theoretic risk of fetal transmission include measles, mumps and rubella, varicella and bacilli Calmette-Guerin. A number of other vaccines have not yet been adequately studied; therefore risks of vaccination must be weighed against the risks of the disease to the mother and fetus. Inadvertent administration of any of these vaccination, however is not considered an indication for termination of the pregnancy.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v1i2.19536
Bilateral Lumbar Hernia - a Rare Occurence in Infant
Authors: Islam Shahnoor , Morshed AKM Amirul , Huq Md. Ashraf Ul , Alam Md. Mahbub-Ul , Mondal Susankar Kumar , Hasina Kaniz
Published: July 2014

Lumbar hernias are rare in children. We report a case of bilateral lumbar hernia in a 39 days old boy who was admitted at pediatric surgery department in Dhaka Medical College Hospital with the chief complaints of bilateral flank swellings since birth. There were no urinary or bowel complaints. Palpation revealed reducible, non-tender, soft to firm swellings involving iliolumbar region in left and lumbar region in right . These were increased on crying. On auscultation bowel sounds were present in left side and absent in right side. There were no other congenital anomalies.Ultrasonography revealed herniated bowel loops in left iliolumbar region and mild pelvicalicial dilatation in left kidney and slightly bigger right kidney in right lumbar region. On the basis of these findings a diagnosis of congenital bilateral lumbar hernias were made. Closer of the defects were done by prosthetic material and non- absorbable suture material. He came back for follow-up after 2 weeks, 4 weeks and 6 weeks. Defects were clinically absent and the patient was pain and recurrence-free.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jpsb.v1i2.19537
Emerging and Re-Emerging Zoonoses of Dogs and Cats
Authors: Chomel Bruno
Published: July 2014

Since the middle of the 20th century, pets are more frequently considered as “family members” within households. However, cats and dogs still can be a source of human infection by various zoonotic pathogens. Among emerging or re-emerging zoonoses, viral diseases, such as rabies (mainly from dog pet trade or travel abroad), but also feline cowpox and newly recognized noroviruses or rotaviruses or influenza viruses can sicken our pets and be transmitted to humans. Bacterial zoonoses include bacteria transmitted by bites or scratches, such as pasteurellosis or cat scratch disease, leading to severe clinical manifestations in people because of their age or immune status and also because of our closeness, not to say intimacy, with our pets. Cutaneous contamination with methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, Leptospira spp., and/or aerosolization of bacteria causing tuberculosis or kennel cough are also emerging/re-emerging pathogens that can be transmitted by our pets, as well as gastro-intestinal pathogens such as Salmonella or Campylobacter. Parasitic and fungal pathogens, such as echinococcosis, leishmaniasis, onchocercosis, or sporotrichosis, are also re-emerging or emerging pet related zoonoses. Common sense and good personal and pet hygiene are the key elements to prevent such a risk of zoonotic infection.
Identifying Chaotic FitzHugh–Nagumo Neurons Using Compressive Sensing
Authors: Su Ri-Qi , Lai Ying-Cheng , Wang Xiao
Published: July 2014

We develop a completely data-driven approach to reconstructing coupled neuronal networks that contain a small subset of chaotic neurons. Such chaotic elements can be the result of parameter shift in their individual dynamical systems and may lead to abnormal functions of the network. To accurately identify the chaotic neurons may thus be necessary and important, for example, applying appropriate controls to bring the network to a normal state. However, due to couplings among the nodes, the measured time series, even from non-chaotic neurons, would appear random, rendering inapplicable traditional nonlinear time-series analysis, such as the delay-coordinate embedding method, which yields information about the global dynamics of the entire network. Our method is based on compressive sensing. In particular, we demonstrate that identifying chaotic elements can be formulated as a general problem of reconstructing the nodal dynamical systems, network connections and all coupling functions, as well as their weights. The working and efficiency of the method are illustrated by using networks of non-identical FitzHugh–Nagumo neurons with randomly-distributed coupling weights.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Jet Controlled Compression Ignition on Combustion Phasing Control in Diesel Premixed Compression Ignition Systems
Authors: Zhang Qiang , Long Wuqiang , Tian Jiangping , Wang Yicong , Meng Xiangyu
Published: July 2014

In order to directly control the premixed combustion phasing, a Jet Controlled Compression Ignition (JCCI) for diesel premixed compression ignition systems is investigated. Experiments were conducted on a single cylinder natural aspirated diesel engine without EGR at 3000 rpm. Numerical models were validated by load sweep experiments at fixed spark timing. Detailed combustion characteristics were analyzed based on the BMEP of 2.18 bar. The simulation results showed that the high temperature jets of reacting active radical species issued from the ignition chamber played an important role on the onset of combustion in the JCCI system. The combustion of diesel pre-mixtures was initiated rapidly by the combustion products issued from the ignition chamber. Moreover, the flame propagation was not obvious, similar to that in Pre-mixed Charge Compression Ignition (PCCI). Consequently, spark timing sweep experiments were conducted. The results showed a good linear relationship between spark timing in the ignition chamber and CA10 and CA50, which indicated the ability for direct combustion phasing control in diesel PCCI. The NOx and soot emissions gradually changed with the decrease of spark advance angle. The maximum reduction of NOx and soot were both over 90%, and HC and CO emissions were increased.
Factors Influencing the Choice of Management Strategy among Small-Scale Private Forest Owners in Sweden
Authors: Eggers Jeannette , Lämås Tomas , Lind Torgny , Öhman Karin
Published: July 2014

Half of the productive forest area in Sweden is owned by small-scale private forest owners. However, there is a lack of comprehensive information that would allow categorizing small-scale private forest owners according to their management strategy. In this study, we surveyed small-scale private forest owners in Sweden to determine the proportions who applied various management strategies. We analyzed the results using chi-square tests to identify the most relevant factors affecting the management strategy choices of individual forest owners. We found that “soft” factors, such as the importance of income from the forest, membership in a forest owners’ association, certification and an interest in and knowledge of forestry issues, had a stronger impact on the choice of management strategy than most “hard” factors related to the owner or the property, such as gender and distance between the owner’s residence and the property. However, property size was the most important factor and was associated with the importance of income derived from the forest and several other soft factors.
Recess Physical Activity and Perceived School Environment among Elementary School Children
Authors: Ishii Kaori , Shibata Ai , Sato Mai , Oka Koichiro
Published: July 2014

Differences in recess physical activity (PA) according to perceived school environment among elementary school children were examined. Participants were 103 children from two schools in Japan. PA was measured using accelerometry for seven consecutive days. Time spent in sedentary or PA (light, moderate, or vigorous) during their morning recess (25 min) and lunch recess (15 min) was determined. The School Physical Activity Environment Scale (three factors: equipment, facility, and safety) was used to investigate perceived school environment. Environmental factor scores were assigned to low or high groups for each factor by median. An analysis of covariance, with grade as the covariate, was conducted separately by gender to examine differences in PA between two groups. During lunch recess, boys in the high-equipment group spent significantly more time in moderate PA (high: 1.5; low: 0.8 min) whereas girls in this group spent less time in light PA (9.3, 11.0). Boys in the high-facility group spent significantly less time in sedentary (2.3, 3.9) and more time in vigorous PA (2.4, 1.4) during lunch recess, and girls spent more time in moderate (2.1, 1.2) and vigorous PA (1.9, 1.3) during morning recess. Differences were observed in recess PA according to school environment perceptions. The present study may be useful for further intervention studies for the promotion of PA during recess.
Stromal Cell-Derived Factor 1 Gene Polymorphism Is Associated with Susceptibility to Adverse Long-Term Allograft Outcomes in Non-Diabetic Kidney Transplant Recipients
Authors: Wang Chung-Jieh , Tsai Jen-Pi , Yang Shun-Fa , Lian Jong-Da , Chang Horng-Rong
Published: July 2014

Although the genetic polymorphism of Stromal Cell-Derived Factor 1 (SDF-1) is associated with higher mortality of liver allograft recipients, the role of SDF-1 in the modulation of renal allograft outcomes is unclear. Between March 2000 and January 2008, we recruited 252 non-diabetic renal transplant recipients (RTRs). Baseline characteristics and blood chemistry were recorded. Genomic DNA extraction with polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism was utilized to analyze the genetic polymorphisms of SDF-1 (rs1801157). The influence of SDF-1 on an adverse renal allograft outcome, defined as either a doubling of serum creatinine, graft failure, or patient death was evaluated. Sixteen patients with the SDF-1 AA/AG genotype and nine with the SDF-1 GG genotype reached an adverse outcome. According to Kaplan-Meier analysis, patients carrying the SDF-1 AA/AG genotype or A allele showed a significantly higher risk of reaching an adverse outcome than those carrying the SDF-1 GG genotype or G allele (p = 0.041; p = 0.0051, respectively; log rank test). Stepwise multivariate Cox proportional regression analysis revealed that patients carrying the SDF-1 AA/AG genotype and A allele had a 2.742-fold (95% CI. 1.106–6.799, p = 0.03) and 2.306-fold (95% CI. 1.254–4.24, p = 0.008) risk of experiencing an adverse outcome. The SDF-1 AA/AG genotype and A allele have a detrimental impact on the long-term outcome of RTRs.
Next Generation Sequencing As an Aid to Diagnosis and Treatment of an Unusual Pediatric Brain Cancer
Authors: Glod John , Song Mihae , Sharma Archana , Tyagi Rachana , Rhodes Roy , Weissmann David , Roychowdhury Sudipta , Khan Atif , Kane Michael , Hirshfield Kim , Ganesan Shridar , DiPaola Robert , Rodriguez-Rodriguez Lorna
Published: July 2014

Classification of pediatric brain tumors with unusual histologic and clinical features may be a diagnostic challenge to the pathologist. We present a case of a 12-year-old girl with a primary intracranial tumor. The tumor classification was not certain initially, and the site of origin and clinical behavior were unusual. Genomic characterization of the tumor using a Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendment (CLIA)-certified next-generation sequencing assay assisted in the diagnosis and translated into patient benefit, albeit transient. Our case argues that next generation sequencing may play a role in the pathological classification of pediatric brain cancers and guiding targeted therapy, supporting additional studies of genetically targeted therapeutics.
An Adaptive Model to Monitor Chlorophyll-a in Inland Waters in Southern Quebec Using Downscaled MODIS Imagery
Authors: El-Alem Anas , Chokmani Karem , Laurion Isabelle , El-Adlouni Sallah
Published: July 2014

The purpose of this study is to assess the performance of an adaptive model (AM) in estimating chlorophyll‑a concentration (Chl‑a) in optically complex inland waters. Chl‑a modeling using remote sensing data is usually based on a single model that generally follows an exponential function. The estimates produced by such models are relatively accurate at high Chl‑a concentrations, but accuracy drops at low concentrations. Our objective was to develop an approach combining spectral response classification and three semi-empirical algorithms. The AM discriminates between three blooming classes (waters poorly, moderately, and highly loaded in Chl‑a), with discrimination thresholds set using the classification and regression tree (CART) technique. The calibration of three specific estimators for each class was achieved using a multivariate stepwise regression. Compared to published models (Floating Algae Index, Kahru model, and APProach by ELimination) using the same data set, the AM provided better Chl‑a concentration estimates (R2 of 0.96, relative RMSE of 23%, relative Bias of −2%, and a relative NASH criterion of 0.9). Moreover, the AM achieved an overall success rate of 67% in the estimation of blooming classes (corresponding to low, moderate, and high Chl‑a concentration classes). This was done using an independent data set collected from 22 inland water bodies for the period 2007–2010 and for which the only information available was the blooming class.
Integration of Optical and Synthetic Aperture Radar Imagery for Improving Crop Mapping in Northwestern Benin, West Africa
Authors: Forkuor Gerald , Conrad Christopher , Thiel Michael , Ullmann Tobias , Zoungrana Evence
Published: July 2014

Crop mapping in West Africa is challenging, due to the unavailability of adequate satellite images (as a result of excessive cloud cover), small agricultural fields and a heterogeneous landscape. To address this challenge, we integrated high spatial resolution multi-temporal optical (RapidEye) and dual polarized (VV/VH) SAR (TerraSAR-X) data to map crops and crop groups in northwestern Benin using the random forest classification algorithm. The overall goal was to ascertain the contribution of the SAR data to crop mapping in the region. A per-pixel classification result was overlaid with vector field boundaries derived from image segmentation, and a crop type was determined for each field based on the modal class within the field. A per-field accuracy assessment was conducted by comparing the final classification result with reference data derived from a field campaign. Results indicate that the integration of RapidEye and TerraSAR-X data improved classification accuracy by 10%–15% over the use of RapidEye only. The VV polarization was found to better discriminate crop types than the VH polarization. The research has shown that if optical and SAR data are available for the whole cropping season, classification accuracies of up to 75% are achievable.
Tailored Cyclodextrin Pore Blocker Protects Mammalian Cells from Clostridium difficile Binary Toxin CDT
Authors: Roeder Maurice , Nestorovich Ekaterina , Karginov Vladimir , Schwan Carsten , Aktories Klaus , Barth Holger
Published: July 2014

Some Clostridium difficile strains produce, in addition to toxins A and B, the binary toxin Clostridium difficile transferase (CDT), which ADP-ribosylates actin and may contribute to the hypervirulence of these strains. The separate binding and translocation component CDTb mediates transport of the enzyme component CDTa into mammalian target cells. CDTb binds to its receptor on the cell surface, CDTa assembles and CDTb/CDTa complexes are internalised. In acidic endosomes, CDTb mediates the delivery of CDTa into the cytosol, most likely by forming a translocation pore in endosomal membranes. We demonstrate that a seven-fold symmetrical positively charged β-cyclodextrin derivative, per-6-S-(3-aminomethyl)benzylthio-β-cyclodextrin, which was developed earlier as a potent inhibitor of the translocation pores of related binary toxins of Bacillus anthracis, Clostridium botulinum and Clostridium perfringens, protects cells from intoxication with CDT. The pore blocker did not interfere with the CDTa-catalyzed ADP-ribosylation of actin or toxin binding to Vero cells but inhibited the pH-dependent membrane translocation of CDTa into the cytosol. In conclusion, the cationic β-cyclodextrin could serve as the lead compound in a development of novel pharmacological strategies against the CDT-producing strains of C. difficile.
Increased Plasma Cell-Free DNA Level during HTNV Infection: Correlation with Disease Severity and Virus Load
Authors: Yi Jing , Zhang Yun , Zhang Yusi , Ma Ying , Zhang Chunmei , Li Qi , Liu Bei , Liu Zhijia , Liu Jiayun , Zhang Xianqing , Zhuang Ran , Jin Boquan
Published: July 2014

Cell-free DNA (cf-DNA) in blood represents a promising DNA damage response triggered by virus infection or trauma, tumor, etc. Hantavirus primarily causes two diseases: haemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome (HFRS) and Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome (HCPS), depending on different Hantavirus species. The aim of this study was to evaluate plasma cf-DNA levels in acute phase of HFRS, and to correlate plasma cf-DNA with disease severity and plasma Hanttan virus (HTNV) load. We observed the appearance of cf-DNA in 166 plasma samples from 76 HFRS patients: the plasma cf-DNA levels peaked at the hypotensive stage of HFRS, and then decreased gradually. Until the diuretic stage, there was no significant difference in plasma cf-DNA level between patients and the healthy control. Exclusively in the febrile/hypotensive stage, the plasma cf-DNA levels of severe/critical patients were higher than those of the mild/moderate group. Moreover, the plasma cf-DNA value in the early stage of HFRS was correlated with HTNV load and disease severity. In most of the patients, plasma cf-DNA displayed a low-molecular weight appearance, corresponding to the size of apoptotic DNA. In conclusion, the plasma cf-DNA levels were dynamically elevated during HFRS, and correlated with disease severity, which suggests that plasma cf-DNA may be a potential biomarker for the pathogenesis and prognosis of HFRS.