bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMPOSITION ANALYSIS OF THE GIANT ELECTRORHEOLOGICAL FLUIDS
Authors: YANG S. H. , GAO X. , LI C. X. , WANG Q. , SHEN R. , SUN G. , LU K. Q.
Published: January 2012

The yield stress of the electrorheological fluid based on the powder of the precursor of CaTiO 3, the main component of which is calcium oxalate monohydrate, has being measured for different treating temperature. It is found that the yield stress decreases dramatically as the treating temperature increases to 160°C. The components of the vaporized materials during heating process are analyzed by thermogravimetry-mass spectrum method and also thermogravimetry-infrared spectrum method. Both of the methods show that the vaporized material is almost water before the temperature rising to 200°C. These results suggest that the water adsorbed in the dispersed particles plays a decisive role in this type of electrorheological fluids.
SPIN CURRENT AMPLIFICATION IN PRESENCE OF NONUNIFORM DOPING
Authors: MIRZAEE SH. , SOLEIMANI H. RAHIMPOUR
Published: January 2012

In this paper, for the first time in our knowledge, the influence of nonuniform and continuous doping in semiconductor on amplification of spin polarization current especially in n-type GaAs semiconductor have been studied. Numerical calculations based on a selfconsistent solution of the continuity equation, the Poisson equation and rate-equation are used to explain the amplification of spin polarization density. The influences of the diffusion coefficient (Dn) and relaxation time (τsf) on the spin polarization density are also studied. The amplifying effect of nonuniform doping on spin polarization density is important because it might have many applications in spintronic devices.
ON KAZHDAN CONSTANTS OF FINITE INDEX SUBGROUPS IN SLn(ℤ)
Authors: HADAD UZY
Published: January 2012

We prove that for any finite index subgroup Γ in SL n(ℤ), there exists k = k(n) ∈ ℕ, ϵ = ϵ(Γ) > 0, and an infinite family of finite index subgroups in Γ with a Kazhdan constant greater than ϵ with respect to a generating set of order k. On the other hand, we prove that for any finite index subgroup Γ of SL n(ℤ), and for any ϵ > 0 and k ∈ ℕ, there exists a finite index subgroup Γ′ ≤ Γ such that the Kazhdan constant of any finite index subgroup in Γ′ is less than ϵ, with respect to any generating set of order k. In addition, we prove that the Kazhdan constant of the principal congruence subgroup Γn(m), with respect to a generating set consisting of elementary matrices (and their conjugates), is greater than [Formula: see text], where c > 0 depends only on n. For a fixed n, this bound is asymptotically best possible.
VIRIAL EXPANSION OF THE NUCLEAR EQUATION OF STATE
Authors: MAGANA RUSLAN , ZHENG HUA , BONASERA ALDO
Published: January 2012

We study the equation of state (EOS) of nuclear matter as function of density. We expand the energy per particle (E/A) of symmetric infinite nuclear matter in powers of the density to take into account 2, 3, …, N-body forces. New EOS are proposed by fitting ground state properties of nuclear matter (binding energy, compressibility and pressure) and assuming that at high densities a second-order phase transition to the quark–gluon plasma (QGP) occurs. The latter phase transition is due to symmetry breaking at high density from nuclear matter (locally color white) to the QGP (globally color white). In the simplest implementation of a second-order phase transition we calculate the critical exponent δ by using Landau's theory of phase transition. We find δ = 3. Refining the properties of the EOS near the critical point gives δ = 5 in agreement with experimental results. We also discuss some scenarios for the EOS at finite temperatures.
Tissue-specific control of mitochondrial respiration in obesity-related insulin resistance and diabetes
Authors: Holmström Maria H. , Iglesias-Gutierrez Eduardo , Zierath Juleen R. , Garcia-Roves Pablo M.
Published: January 2012

The tissue-specific role of mitochondrial respiratory capacity in the development of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes is unclear. We determined mitochondrial function in glycolytic and oxidative skeletal muscle and liver from lean (+/ ?) and obese diabetic ( db/db) mice. In lean mice, the mitochondrial respiration pattern differed between tissues. Tissue-specific mitochondrial profiles were then compared between lean and db/db mice. In liver, mitochondrial respiratory capacity and protein expression, including peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ coactivator-1α (PGC-1α), was decreased in db/db mice, consistent with increased mitochondrial fission. In glycolytic muscle, mitochondrial respiration, as well as protein and mRNA expression of mitochondrial markers, was increased in db/db mice, suggesting increased mitochondrial content and fatty acid oxidation capacity. In oxidative muscle, mitochondrial complex I function and PGC-1α and mitochondrial transcription factor A (TFAM) protein levels were decreased in db/db mice, along with increased level of proteins related to mitochondrial dynamics. In conclusion, mitochondrial respiratory performance is under the control of tissue-specific mechanisms and is not uniformly altered in response to obesity. Furthermore, insulin resistance in glycolytic skeletal muscle can be maintained by a mechanism independent of mitochondrial dysfunction. Conversely, insulin resistance in liver and oxidative skeletal muscle from db/db mice is coincident with mitochondrial dysfunction.
Diet and exercise in an obese mouse fed a high-fat diet improve metabolic health and reverse perturbed sperm function
Authors: Palmer Nicole O. , Bakos Hassan W. , Owens Julie A. , Setchell Brian P. , Lane Michelle
Published: January 2012

Male obesity is associated with reduced sperm motility and morphology and increased sperm DNA damage and oxidative stress; however, the reversibility of these phenotypes has never been studied. Therefore, the aim of this study was to assess the reversibility of obesity and its associated sperm physiology and function in mice in response to weight loss through diet and exercise. C57BL6 male mice ( n = 40) were fed either a control diet (CD; 6% fat) or a high-fat diet (HFD; 21% fat) for 10 wk before allocation to either diet and/or swimming exercise interventions for 8 wk. Diet alone reduced adiposity (1.6-fold) and serum cholesterol levels (1.7-fold, P < 0.05), while exercise alone did not alter these, but exercise plus diet also improved glucose tolerance (1.3-fold, P < 0.05). Diet and/or exercise improved sperm motility (1.2-fold) and morphology (1.1-fold, P < 0.05), and reduced sperm DNA damage (1.5-fold), reactive oxygen species (1.1-fold), and mitochondrial membrane potential (1.2-fold, P < 0.05) and increased sperm binding (1.4-fold) ( P < 0.05). Sperm parameters were highly correlated with measures of glycemia, insulin action, and serum cholesterol (all P < 0.05) regardless of adiposity or intervention, suggesting a link between systemic metabolic status and sperm function. This is the first study to show that the abnormal sperm physiology resulting from obesity can be reversed through diet and exercise, even in the presence of ongoing obesity, suggesting that diet and lifestyle interventions could be a combined approach to target subfertility in overweight and obese men.
Glucose ingestion acutely lowers pulsatile LH and basal testosterone secretion in men
Authors: Iranmanesh Ali , Lawson Donna , Veldhuis Johannes D.
Published: January 2012

Chronic hyperglycemia inhibits the male gonadal axis. The present analyses test the hypothesis that acute glucose ingestion also suppresses LH and testosterone (T) secretion and blunts the LH-T dose-response function. The design comprised a prospectively randomized crossover comparison of LH and T secretion after glucose vs. water ingestion in a Clinical Translational Research Center. The participants were healthy men ( n = 57) aged 19–78 yr with body mass index (BMI) of 20–39 kg/m2. The main outcome measurements were deconvolution and LH-T dose-response analyses of 10-min data. LH-T responses were regressed on glucose, insulin, leptin, adiponectin, age, BMI, and CT-estimated abdominal visceral fat. During the first 120 min after glucose ingestion, for each unit decrease in LH concentrations, T concentrations decreased by 86 (27–144) ng/dl ( r = 0.853, P < 0.001). Based upon deconvolution analysis, glucose compared with water ingestion reduced 1) basal (nonpulsatile; P < 0.001) and total ( P < 0.001) T secretion without affecting pulsatile T output and 2) pulsatile ( P = 0.043) but not basal LH secretion. By multivariate analysis, pulsatile LH secretion positively predicted basal T secretion after glucose ingestion ( r = 0.374, P = 0.0042). In addition, the glucose-induced fall in pulsatile LH secretion was exacerbated by higher fasting insulin concentrations ( P = 0.054) and attenuated by higher adiponectin levels ( P = 0.0037). There were no detectable changes in the analytically estimated LH-T dose-response curves ( P > 0.30). In conclusion, glucose ingestion suppresses pulsatile LH and basal T secretion acutely in healthy men. Suppression is influenced by age, glucose, adiponectin, and insulin concentrations.
Testosterone increases the muscle protein synthesis rate but does not affect very-low-density lipoprotein metabolism in obese premenopausal women
Authors: Wang Xuewen , Smith Gordon I. , Patterson Bruce W. , Reeds Dominic N. , Kampelman Janine , Magkos Faidon , Mittendorfer Bettina
Published: January 2012

Men and women with hyperandrogenemia have a more proatherogenic plasma lipid profile [e.g., greater triglyceride (TG) and total and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol and lower high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol concentrations] than healthy premenopausal women. Furthermore, castration of male rats markedly reduces testosterone availability below normal and decreases plasma TG concentration, and testosterone replacement reverses this effect. Testosterone is, therefore, thought to be an important regulator of plasma lipid homeostasis. However, little is known about the effect of testosterone on plasma TG concentration and kinetics. Furthermore, testosterone is a potent skeletal muscle protein anabolic agent in men, but its effect on muscle protein turnover in women is unknown. We measured plasma lipid concentrations, hepatic very low density lipoprotein (VLDL)-TG and VLDL-apolipoprotein B-100 secretion rates, and the muscle protein fractional synthesis rate in 10 obese women before and after trandermal testosterone (1.25 g of 1% AndroGel daily) treatment for 3 wk. Serum total and free testosterone concentrations increased ( P < 0.05) by approximately sevenfold in response to testosterone treatment, reaching concentrations that are comparable to those in women with hyperandrogenemia, but lower than the normal range for eugonadal men. Except for a small (∼10%) decrease in plasma high-density lipoprotein particle and cholesterol concentrations ( P < 0.04), testosterone therapy had no effect on plasma lipid concentrations, lipoprotein particle sizes, and hepatic VLDL-TG and VLDL-apolipoprotein B-100 secretion rates (all P > 0.05); the muscle protein fractional synthesis rate, however, increased by ∼45% ( P < 0.001). We conclude that testosterone is a potent skeletal muscle protein anabolic agent, but not an important regulator of plasma lipid homeostasis in obese women.
Catechol-O-methyltransferase polymorphisms do not play a significant role in pain perception in male Chinese Han population
Authors: Xiang Xiaohui , Jiang Yin , Ni Yanjun , Fan Min , Shen Fang , Wang Xuewei , Han Jisheng , Cui Cailian
Published: January 2012

Polymorphisms in the human catechol-O-methyltransferase (COMT) gene have been widely studied for their role in pain and analgesia. In this study, sensitivity to potassium iontophoresis, visual analog scale measurements for fixed twofold pain threshold stimulation and pain threshold changes induced by transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation (TEAS) were assessed in a population of healthy Chinese males. These results were correlated with the alleles of six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) or diplotypes of common haplotypes designated as low pain sensitive, average pain sensitive, and high pain sensitive in the COMT gene of these subjects. Our results reveal that the alleles of each SNP are not significantly correlated with pain perception except for the rs4633 allele in the 2 Hz TEAS session ( P < 0.05). In addition, the six diplotypes of COMT haplotypes, which cover 92.5% of the Chinese population, are also not correlated with pain perception. Moreover, there were no significant differences in pain threshold changes induced by 2 and 100 Hz TEAS among the diplotypes of each SNP or the various haplotypes. These results suggest that COMT activity do not play a significant role in pain perception and TEAS-induced analgesia in the Chinese Han male population.
Insights into DNA Platination within Unusual Structural Settings
Authors: Harvie Stephanie , Wilson Owen , Parkinson John A.
Published: January 2012

2D HSQC NMR spectroscopy has been used to monitor reaction and product formation between and nucleic acids possessing irregular topologies and containing site-specific phosphorothioate substitution in the phosphodiester backbone. Comparison of the reaction profiles of dimer nucleic acids with and without phosphorothioate substitution is made with their short nucleic acid counterparts containing the key dimer components. Whereas d(GpA) is relatively unreactive towards , NMR evidence suggests that the tandem sheared mismatch duplex d(GCG3pAGC)2 reacts to form the head-to-tail interstrand G3-N7-Pt-G3-N7 cross-link. The equivalent phosphorothioate R,S-d(GsA) reacts to form a monoiodo, monosulphur adduct, whereas the tandem sheared mismatch phosphorothioate duplex d(GCGsAG5C)2 (VIs) reacts to form the unusual intrastrand macrochelate , in which platinum is attached at both sulphur and G5-N7. Experimental evidence supports the formation of a stabilized mismatch duplex in which platinum is attached to two nitrogen centres in the sequence d(CGCGpTGCG) in contrast to R,S-d(CGCGsT5GCG) for which NMR evidence supports macrochelate-stabilized hairpin loop formation cross-linked at both phosphorothioate sulphur and T5-N3.
Unilateral Glenoid Hypoplasia: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Suryawanshi Ashish , Mittal Amber , Dongre Snehal , Kashyap Neeti
Published: January 2012

Glenoid hypoplasia is a relatively rare alteration that in most cases involves the pectoral girdle in a bilateral and symmetrical manner. In general, glenoid hypoplasia is associated with skeletal changes such as hypoplasia of the humeral head or changes in the morphology of the acromion and of the coracoid. We describe a rare case of unilateral glenoid hypoplasia without instability and not involving humeral head. The patient was managed effectively with nonoperative measures that featured specific rehabilitation exercises for the shoulder.
A General Input Distance Function Based on Opportunity Costs
Authors: Aparicio Juan , Pastor Jesus T.
Published: January 2012

There are several distance function definitions in a general production framework, including Data Envelopment Analysis, which can be used to describe the production technology and to define corresponding measures of technical efficiency (notably the Shephard and the directional distance functions). This paper introduces a generalisation of the distance function concept based on the idea of minimizing firm's opportunity cost. We further state a general dual correspondence between the cost function and this new general distance function, which encompasses all previously published duality results. All our results also hold under the assumption that we work in a Data Envelopment Analysis context.
Design and Steering Control of a Center-Articulated Mobile Robot Module
Authors: Delrobaei Mehdi , McIsaac Kenneth A.
Published: January 2012

This paper discusses the design and steering control for an autonomous modular mobile robot. The module is designed with a center-articulated steering joint to minimize the number of actuators used in the chain. We propose a feedback control law which allows steering between configurations in the plane and show its application as a parking control to dock modules together. The control law is designed by Lyapunov techniques and relies on the equations of the robot in polar coordinates. A set of experiments have been carried out to show the performance of the proposed approach. The design is intended to endow individual wheeled modules with the capability to merge and make a single snake-like robot to take advantage of the benefits of modular robotics.
An Indwelling Urethral Catheter Knotted Around a Double-J Ureteral Stent: An Unusual Complication after Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Warmerdam E. G. , Toorop R. J. , Abrahams A. C. , Berger P.
Published: January 2012

Urethral catheterization is a common procedure with a relatively low complication rate. Knotting of an indwelling urethral catheter is a very rare complication, and there are only a few case reports on knotted catheters, most of them concerning children. We report an especially rare case where a urethral catheter formed a knot around a double-J ureteral stent after a kidney transplantation. We will discuss the various risk factors for knotting of a catheter and the methods to untangle a knot.
Preparation and Characterization of Ag-Doped BaTiO3 Conductive Powders
Authors: Hao Sue , Fu Dongsheng , Li Jialong , Wang Wei , Shen Bin
Published: January 2012

BaTiO3 powders doped with Ag at different Ag/Ba molar ratios were prepared by sol-gel method. The resistivity reached the lowest point of 5.644 Ω·m when Ag concentration was 0.10 at% and the powders were calcined for two times at 800°C and 500°C. XRD and FTIR investigations showed that no new substance was formed after the doping and calcining process, but the particle size and the strength of Ti-O bond in modified BaTiO3 crystal cell all changed. The conductivity of Ag-doped BaTiO3 powders with different Ag concentrations and through different preparing methods was discussed by using defect theory.
Multiplicative Isometries on F‐Algebras of Holomorphic Functions
Authors: Hatori Osamu , Iida Yasuo , Stević Stevo , Ueki Sei-Ichiro
Published: January 2012

We study multiplicative isometries on the following F‐algebras of holomorphic functions: Smirnov class N*(X), Privalov class Np(X), Bergman‐Privalov class and Zygmund F‐algebra NlogβN(X), where X is the open unit ball 𝔹n or the open unit polydisk 𝔻n in ℂn.
The Role of Autologous Stem Cell Transplantation in the Treatment of Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Gunnellini Marco , Emili Rita , Coaccioli Stefano , Liberati Anna Marina
Published: January 2012

Diffuse large B-cell non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (DLBCL) accounting for approximately 30% of new lymphoma diagnoses in adult patients. Complete remissions (CRs) can be achieved in 45% to 55% of patients and cure in approximately 30–35% with anthracycline-containing combination chemotherapy. The ageadjusted IPI (aaIPI) has been widely employed, particularly to “tailor” more intensive therapy such as high-dose therapy (HDT) with autologous hemopoietic stem cell rescue (ASCT). IPI, however, has failed to reliably predict response to specific therapies. A subgroup of young patients with poor prognosis exists. To clarify the role of HDT/ASCT combined with rituximab in the front line therapy a longer follow-up and randomized studies are needed. The benefit of HDT/ASCT for refractory or relapsed DLBCL is restricted to patients with immunochemosensitive disease. Currently, clinical and biological research is focused to improve the curability of this setting of patients, mainly young.
A 3 DOF Model for an Electromagnetic Air Mount
Authors: Kim HyungTae , Kim CheolHo , Kang SungBok , Lee KangWon , Baek JaeHo , Han HyunHee
Published: January 2012

A matrix model with three degrees of freedom
is proposed as a means for controlling microvibrations and
applied to an electromagnetic isolator. The model was derived
from an assumption based on small- and low-frequency vibrations.
The coordinates of the 3 DOF was composed of the 4 variables,
representing a vertical position, pitch, roll, and a proof term.
The coordinates were calculated from the 4 position sensors
in the isolator and formulated into a matrix, which
possesses inversive full rank. The electro-magnetic isolator was
built for a simulated machine in semiconductor manufacturing
and consisted of a heavy surface plate, sensors, amps, a controller,
and air springs with electromagnets. The electromagnets are
installed in a pneumatic chamber of the individual air spring.
The performance of the 3 DOF model was experimented and
compared with that of a 1 DOF model in an impact test. The
settling time in the result was reduced to 25%.
A Basic Inequality for the Tanaka‐Webster Connection
Authors: Jin Dae Ho , Lee Jae Won
Published: January 2012

For submanifolds tangent to the structure vector field in Sasakian
space forms, we establish a Chen′s basic inequality between the main intrinsic invariants of the submanifold (namely, its pseudosectional curvature
and pseudosectional curvature on one side) and the main extrinsic invariant
(namely, squared pseudomean curvature on the other side) with respect to
the Tanaka‐Webster connection. Moreover, involving the pseudo‐Ricci curvature and the squared pseudo‐mean curvature, we obtain a basic inequality
for submanifolds of a Sasakian space form tangent to the structure vector
field in terms of the Tanaka‐Webster connection.
Kidney Disease and Youth Onset Type 2 Diabetes: Considerations for the General Practitioner
Authors: Dart Allison B. , Sellers Elizabeth A. , Dean Heather J.
Published: January 2012

Youth onset type 2 diabetes (T2DM) continues to increase worldwide, concomitant with the rising obesity epidemic. There is evidence to suggest that youth with T2DM are affected by the same comorbidities and complications as adults diagnosed with T2DM. This review highlights specifically the kidney disease associated with youth onset T2DM, which is highly prevalent and associated with a high risk of end-stage kidney disease in early adulthood. A general understanding of this complex disease by primary care providers is critical, so that at-risk individuals are identified and managed early in the course of their disease, such that progression can be modified in this high-risk group of children and adolescents. A review of the pediatric literature will include a focus on the epidemiology, risk factors, pathology, screening, and treatment of kidney disease in youth onset T2DM.
I-PD Controller Tuning for Unstable System Using Bacterial Foraging Algorithm: A Study Based on Various Error Criterion
Authors: Rajinikanth V. , Latha K.
Published: January 2012

This paper proposes a novel method to tune the I-PD controller structure for the time-delayed unstable process (TDUP) using Bacterial Foraging Optimization (BFO) algorithm. The tuning process is focussed to search the optimal controller parameters (, , ) by minimising the multiple objective performance criterion. A comparative study on various cost functions like Integral of Squared Error (ISE), Integral of Absolute Error (IAE), Integral of Time-weighted Squared Error (ITSE), and Integral of Time weighted Absolute Error (ITAE) have been attempted for a class of TDUP. A simulation study for BFO-based I-PD tuning has been done to validate the performance of the proposed method. The results show that the tuning approach is a model independent approach and provides enhanced performance for the setpoint tracking with improved time domain specifications.
Stability and Bifurcation Analysis of a Three‐Dimensional Recurrent Neural Network with Time Delay
Authors: Li Yingguo
Published: January 2012

We consider the nonlinear dynamical behavior of a
three‐dimensional recurrent neural network with time delay. By choosing the
time delay as a bifurcation parameter, we prove that Hopf bifurcation occurs
when the delay passes through a sequence of critical values. Applying the nor‐
mal form method and center manifold theory, we obtain some local bifurcation
results and derive formulas for determining the bifurcation direction and the
stability of the bifurcated periodic solution. Some numerical examples are also
presented to verify the theoretical analysis.
Gaussian Curvature in Propagation Problems in Physics and Engineering
Authors: Bakhoum Ezzat G.
Published: January 2012

The computation of the Gaussian curvature of a surface is a requirement in many propagation problems
in physics and engineering. A formula is developed for the calculation of the Gaussian curvature by knowledge of two close geodesics on the surface, or alternatively from the projection (i.e., image) of such geodesics. The formula will be very useful for problems in general relativity, civil engineering, and robotic navigation.
Humidification Performance of Heat and Moisture Exchangers for Pediatric Use
Authors: Chikata Yusuke , Sumida Chihiro , Oto Jun , Imanaka Hideaki , Nishimura Masaji
Published: January 2012

Background. While heat and moisture exchangers (HMEs) have been increasingly used for humidification during mechanical ventilation, the efficacy of pediatric HMEs has not yet been fully evaluated.Methods. We tested ten pediatric HMEs when mechanically ventilating a model lung at respiratory rates of 20 and 30 breaths/min and pressure control of 10, 15, and 20 cmH2O. The expiratory gas passed through a heated humidifier. We created two rates of leakage: 3.2 L/min (small) and 5.1 L/min (large) when pressure was 10 cmH2O. We measured absolute humidity (AH) at the Y-piece.Results. Without leakage, eight of ten HMEs maintained AH at more than 30 mg/L. With the small leak, AH decreased below 30 mg/L (26.6 to 29.5 mg/L), decreasing further (19.7 to 27.3 mg/L) with the large leak. Respiratory rate and pressure control level did not affect AH values.Conclusions. Pediatric HMEs provide adequate humidification performance when leakage is absent.
Present Status and Perspectives on the Use of Alkylresorcinols as Biomarkers of Wholegrain Wheat and Rye Intake
Authors: Ross Alastair B.
Published: January 2012

Alkylresorcinols (ARs) were first proposed as potential biomarkers of wholegrain wheat and rye intake a decade ago. Since then there has been a considerable body of research which suggests that ARs do meet most criteria of a biomarker of these foods. Results from human studies on plasma AR and their plasma and urinary metabolites strongly indicate that these compounds are responsive to whole grain wheat and rye intake and are correlated with various measures of AR consumption. This review briefly summarises work on the bioactivities of AR and focuses on aspects related to their use as biomarkers of whole grain wheat and rye intake. Evidence suggests that they thus far broadly fulfil the criteria to act as biomarkers of these cereals. However, there are still gaps in the knowledge on factors relating to the wide interindividual variation, and application to different epidemiological cohorts. Overall, ARs are highly promising biomarkers of whole grain wheat and rye intake and add to our increasing understanding of whole grains and health.
Multitarget Linear‐Quadratic Control Problem: Semi‐Infinite Interval
Authors: Faybusovich L. , Mouktonglang T.
Published: January 2012

We consider multitarget linear‐quadratic control problem on semi‐infinite interval. We show that the problem can be reduced to a simple convex optimization problem on the simplex.
Glaucoma and Corneal Transplant Procedures
Authors: Al-Mahmood Ammar M. , Al-Swailem Samar A. , Edward Deepak P.
Published: January 2012

Glaucoma after corneal transplantation is a leading cause of ocular morbidity after penetrating keratoplasty. The incidence reported is highly variable and a number of etiologic factors have been identified. A number of treatment options are available; surgical intervention for IOP control is associated with a high incidence of graft failure. IOP elevation is less frequently seen following deep anterior lamellar keratoplasty. Descemet's striping-automated endothelial keratoplasty is also associated with postprocedure intraocular pressure elevation and secondary glaucoma and presents unique surgical challenges in patients with preexisting glaucoma surgeries. Glaucoma exists in up to three-quarters of patients who undergo keratoprosthesis surgery and the management if often challenging. The aim of this paper is to highlight the incidence, etiology, and management of glaucoma following different corneal transplant procedures. It also focuses on the challenges in the diagnosis of glaucoma and intraocular pressure monitoring in this group of patients.
Inhibition ofStreptococcus gordoniiMetabolic Activity in Biofilm by Cranberry Juice High-Molecular-Weight Component
Authors: Babu Jegdish , Blair Cohen , Jacob Shiloah , Itzhak Ofek
Published: January 2012

Previous studies demonstrated that a cranberry high-molecular-mass, nondialyzable material (NDM) can inhibit adhesion of numerous species of bacteria and prevents bacterial coaggregation of bacterial pairs. Bacterial coaggregation leads to plaque formation leading to biofilm development on surfaces of oral cavity. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of low concentrations of NDM onStreptococcus gordoniimetabolic activity and biofilm formation on restorative dental surfaces. We found that the NDM selectively inhibited metabolic activity ofS. gordonii, without affecting bacterial viability. Inhibiting the metabolic activity of bacteria in biofilm may benefit the health of the oral cavity.
Microspatial Distributional Patterns of Vectors of Cutaneous Leishmaniasis in Pernambuco, Northeastern Brazil
Authors: Donalisio Maria Rita , Peterson A. Townsend , Costa Pietra Lemos , da Silva Fernando José , Valença Hélio França , Shaw Jeffrey J. , Brandão Filho Sinval P.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of this study is to analyze the spatial distribution and population trends through time ofLutzomyiaspecies in a long-term focus of cutaneous leishmaniasis transmission in an Atlantic Forest area, northeastern Brazil. Sand fly populations of different ecological niches were monitored spatiotemporally in 2009. To summarize vegetation characteristics and phenology, we calculated the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index from Landsat images. Using niche modeling approaches, we assessed suites of environmental factors to identify areas of transmission risk. Although 12 species were detected,L. whitmaniwas the most abundant and broadly distributed across the area, particularly in peridomiciliary locations, and associated negatively with denser vegetation areas. On the other hand,L. complexa,L. sordelli, andL. tupynambaiwere found almost exclusively in forested areas (), and associated positively with denser vegetation.Lutzomyiaspecies' occurrences are related to specific environmental combinations (with contrast among species) in the region.
Potential Energy Surfaces for Reactions of X Metal Atoms (X = Cu, Zn, Cd, Ga, Al, Au, or Hg) with YH4 Molecules (Y = C, Si, or Ge) and Transition Probabilities at Avoided Crossings in Some Cases
Authors: Novaro Octavio , Pacheco-Blas María del Alba , Pacheco-Sánchez Juan Horacio
Published: January 2012

We review ab initio studies based on quantum mechanics on the most important mechanisms of reaction leading to the C–H, Si–H, and Ge–H bond breaking of methane, silane, and germane, respectively, by a metal atom in the lowest states in symmetry: X(2nd excited state, 1st excited state and ground state) + YH4 H3XYH H + XYH3 and XH + YH3. with X = Au, Zn, Cd, Hg, Al, and G, and Y = C, Si, and Ge. Important issues considered here are (a) the role that the occupation of the d-, s-, or p-shells of the metal atom plays in the interactions with a methane or silane or germane molecule, (b) the role of either singlet or doublet excited states of metals on the reaction barriers, and (c) the role of transition probabilities for different families of reacting metals with these gases, using the H–X–Y angle as a reaction coordinate. The breaking of the Y–H bond of YH4 is useful in the production of amorphous hydrogenated films, necessary in several fields of industry.
Development of Macular Holes after Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment Repair in Japanese Patients
Authors: Shibata Mamiko , Oshitari Toshiyuki , Kajita Fusae , Baba Takayuki , Sato Eiju , Yamamoto Shuichi
Published: January 2012

Purpose. To determine the factors associated with the development of a macular hole (MH) after successful rhegmatogenous retinal detachment (RRD) surgery.Methods. Of 1260 eyes that underwent surgery for RRD between April 2005 and March 2010 in our hospital, the medical records of 4 cases from our hospital and one case from another hospital that had undergone RRD surgery and later developed MH were reviewed. This is a retrospective study.Results. 837 eyes underwent pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) with or without scleral buckling (SB), and 423 eyes underwent SB. The four cases that developed MH had PPV alone and one case had PPV with SB. After including the results of three earlier reports, the mean interval for the MH to develop after SB alone was significantly shorter than after PPV alone or after PPV with SB.Conclusions. The SB procedures might accelerate the development of MH after RRD surgery.
Fixed Point Theorems for ψ‐Contractive Mappings in Ordered Metric Spaces
Authors: Chen Chi-Ming
Published: January 2012

We obtain some new fixed point theorems for ψ‐contractive mappings in ordered metric spaces. Our results generalize or improve many recent fixed point theorems in the literature (e.g., Harjani et al., 2011 and 2010).
Nonengraftment Haploidentical Cellular Therapy for Hematologic Malignancies
Authors: Reagan John L. , Fast Loren D. , Winer Eric S. , Safran Howard , Butera James N. , Quesenberry Peter J.
Published: January 2012

Much of the therapeutic benefit of allogeneic transplant is by a graft versus tumor effect. Further data shows that transplant engraftment is not dependant on myeloablation, instead relying on quantitative competition between donor and host cells. In the clinical setting, engraftment by competition alone is not feasible due to the need for large numbers of infused cells. Instead, low-level host irradiation has proven to be an effective engraftment strategy that is stem cell toxic but not myeloablative. The above observations served as the foundation for clinical trials utilizing allogeneic matched and haploidentical peripheral blood stem cell infusions with minimal conditioning in patients with refractory malignancies. Although engraftment was transient or not apparent, there were compelling responses in a heavily pretreated patient population that appear to result from the breaking of tumor immune tolerance by the host through the actions of IFNγ, invariant NK T cells, CD8 T cells, NK cells, or antigen presenting cells.
Parasitoid Guilds ofAgrilusWoodborers (Coleoptera: Buprestidae): Their Diversity and Potential for Use in Biological Control
Authors: Taylor Philip B. , Duan Jian J. , Fuester Roger W. , Hoddle Mark , Van Driesche Roy
Published: January 2012

Literature studies in North America (US and Canada), Europe, and Asia (particularly Russia, China, Japan, and the Korean peninsula) were reviewed to identify parasitoid guilds associated withAgriluswoodborers. There are at least 12 species of hymenopteran parasitoids attacking eggs ofAgrilusbeetles and 56 species (36 genera), attackingAgriluslarvae infesting various host plants in North America, Asia, and Europe. While most of the egg parasitoids (9 species) belong to the family Encyrtidae, a majority of the larval parasitoids are members of five families: Braconidae (24 species/11 genera), Eulophidae (8 species/4 genera), Ichneumonidae (10 species/9 genera), and Eupelmidae (6 species/5 genera). The highest rate ofAgrilusegg parasitism (>50%) was exerted by encyrtid wasps (4 species) in North America, Asia, and Europe. In contrast, the highest rate ofAgriluslarval parasitism (>50%) was caused by species in two genera of braconids:Atanycolus(North America) andSpathius(Asia), and one eulophid genus,Tetrastichus(Asia and Europe). Reported rate ofAgriluslarval parasitism ichneumonids was frequent in North America, but generally low (<1%). Potential for success in biological control of emerald ash borer (Agrilus planipennisFairmaire) in the USA with North American native parasitoids and old-association Asian parasitoids is discussed.
Crohn’s Disease Imaging: A Review
Authors: Gatta Gianluca , Di Grezia Graziella , Di Mizio Veronica , Landolfi Cinzia , Mansi Luigi , De Sio Ilario , Rotondo Antonio , Grassi Roberto
Published: January 2012

Crohn’s disease is a chronic granulomatous inflammatory disease of the gastrointestinal tract, which can involve almost any segment from the mouth to the anus. Typically, Crohn’s lesions attain segmental and asynchronous distribution with varying levels of seriousness, although the sites most frequently involved are the terminal ileum and the proximal colon. A single gold standard for the diagnosis of CD is not available and the diagnosis of CD is confirmed by clinical evaluation and a combination of endoscopic, histological, radiological, and/or biochemical investigations. In recent years, many studies have been performed to investigate the diagnostic potential of less invasive and more patient-friendly imaging modalities in the evaluation of Crohn’s disease including conventional enteroclysis, ultrasonography, color-power Doppler, contrast-enhanced ultrasonography, multidetector CT enteroclysis, MRI enteroclysis, and 99mTc-HMPAO-labeled leukocyte scintigraphy. The potential diagnostic role of each imaging modality has to be considered in different clinical degrees of the disease, because there is no single imaging technique that allows a correct diagnosis and may be performed with similar results in every institution. The aim of this paper is to point out the advantages and limitations of the various imaging techniques in patients with suspected or proven Crohn’s disease.
Medical Transport of Children with Complex Chronic Conditions
Authors: Lerner Carlos F. , Kelly Robert B. , Hamilton Leslie J. , Klitzner Thomas S.
Published: January 2012

One of the most notable trends in child health has been the increase in the number of children with special health care needs, including those with complex chronic conditions. Care of these children accounts for a growing fraction of health care resources. We examine recent developments in health care, especially with regard to medical transport and prehospital care, that have emerged to adapt to this remarkable demographic trend. One such development is the focus on care coordination, including the dissemination of the patient-centered medical home concept. In the prehospital setting, the need for greater coordination has catalyzed the development of the emergency information form. Training programs for prehospital providers now incorporate specific modules for children with complex conditions. Another notable trend is the shift to a family-centered model of care. We explore efforts toward regionalization of care, including the development of specialized pediatric transport teams, and conclude with recommendations for a research agenda.
Facile Fabrication of Sodium Titanate Nanostructures Using Metatitanic Acid (TiO2 · H2O) and Its Adsorption Property
Authors: Li Gang , Zhang Lide , Fang Ming
Published: January 2012

Fluffy sodium titanate nanostructures have been fabricated by a simple hydrothermal method with metatitanic acid as precursor. The obtained nanostructures exhibit as the aggregation of nanosheets, and the surface area of the nanostructure is about 110.59 m2/g. Such nanoarchitecture indicates high adsorption capacity to some metal ions, such as Cd2+, and the maximum adsorption capacity has been estimated to be 255.18 mg/g. The possible reasons that are responsible after its high adsorption ability, have been ascribed to the tiny structure, the ion‐exchange ability and the large surface area of the sodium titanate nanostructures. And this may greatly enlarge its application potential as an adsorbent.
QCLAS and CRDS-Based CO Quantification as Aimed at in Breath Measurements
Authors: Nwaboh Javis Anyangwe , Persijn Stefan , Heinrich Kathrin , Sowa Marcus , Hering Peter , Werhahn Olav
Published: January 2012

Laser-spectrometric methods to derive absolute and traceable carbon monoxide (CO) amount fractions in exhaled human breath could be of advantage for early disease detection as well as for treatment monitoring. As proof-of-principle laboratory experiment, we employed intra-pulse and continuous wave (cw) quantum cascade laser spectroscopy (QCLAS), both at 4.6 μm. Additional experiments were carried out applying cw cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) with a CO sideband laser and a QCL. We emphasize metrological data quality objectives, thatis, traceability and uncertainty, which could serve as essential benefits to exhaled breath measurements. The results were evaluated and compared on a 100 μmol/mol CO level using the two QCLAS spectrometers, and the cw CO sideband laser CRDS setup. The relative standard uncertainties of the pulsed and the cw QCLAS CO amount fraction results were ±4.8 and ±2.8%, respectively, that from the CO sideband laser CRDS was ±2.7%. Sensitivities down to a 3 nmol/mol CO level were finally demonstrated and quantified by means of cw CRDS equipped with a QCL yielding standard uncertainties of about ±2.5 that are exclusively limited by the available line strength figure quality. With this study we demonstrate the achieved comparability of CO quantifications, adhering metrological principles.
Towards an Automatic Parameter-Tuning Framework for Cost Optimization on Video Encoding Cloud
Authors: Li Xiaowei , Cui Yi , Xue Yuan
Published: January 2012

The emergence of cloud encoding services facilitates many content owners, such as the online video vendors, to transcode their digital videos without infrastructure setup. Such service provider charges the customers only based on their resource consumption. For both the service provider and customers, lowering the resource consumption while maintaining the quality is valuable and desirable. Thus, to choose a cost-effective encoding parameter, configuration is essential and challenging due to the tradeoff between bitrate, encoding speed, and resulting quality. In this paper, we explore the feasibility of an automatic parameter-tuning framework, based on which the above objective can be achieved. We introduce a simple service model, which combines the bitrate and encoding speed into a single value: encoding cost. Then, we conduct an empirical study to examine the relationship between the encoding cost and various parameter settings. Our experiment is based on the one-pass Constant Rate Factor method in x264, which can achieve relatively stable perceptive quality, and we vary each parameter we choose to observe how the encoding cost changes. The experiment results show that the tested parameters can be independently tuned to minimize the encoding cost, which makes the automatic parameter-tuning framework feasible and promising for optimizing the cost on video encoding cloud.
Comparison of Macular Thickness in Diabetic Macular Edema Using Spectral-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography and Time-Domain Optical Coherence Tomography
Authors: Kakinoki Masashi , Miyake Taichirou , Sawada Osamu , Sawada Tomoko , Kawamura Hajime , Ohji Masahito
Published: January 2012

Purpose. To compare the macular thicknesses in diabetic macular edema (DME) measured with spectral-domain optical coherence tomography (SD-OCT) and time-domain (TD) OCT.Patients and Methods.The average macular thicknesses of 50 eyes of 29 patients with DME were measured using SD-OCT and TD-OCT.Results.The mean macular thicknesses measured with TD-OCT and SD-OCT were401.5±117.8 μm (mean ± SD) and446.2±123.5 μm, respectively. The macular thicknesses measured with the two devices were well correlated (Pearson's product moment correlation,r=0.977,P<0.001). A significant correlation was found between the best-corrected visual acuity and the retinal thickness measured by TD-OCT and SD-OCT (Pearson's product moment correlation, TD-OCT,r=0.34;P<0.05; SD-OCT,r=0.32;P<0.05).Discussion.The mean macular thickness measured with SD-OCT was about 45 μm thicker than that measured with TD-OCT. Attention should be paid when comparing data obtained using different OCT machines.
Automated Design of an FDI System for the Wind Turbine Benchmark
Authors: Svärd Carl , Nyberg Mattias
Published: January 2012

We propose an FDI system for the wind turbine benchmark designed by the application of a generic automated method. No specific adaptation of the method for the wind turbine benchmark is needed, and the number of required human decisions, assumptions, as well as parameter choices is minimized. The method contains in essence three steps: generation of candidate residual generators, residual generator selection, and diagnostic test construction. The proposed FDI system performs well in spite of no specific adaptation or tuning to the benchmark. All faults in the predefined test sequence can be detected and all faults, except a double fault, can also be isolated shortly thereafter. In addition, there are no false or missed detections.
Here, There Be Dragons: Charting Autophagy-Related Alterations in Human Tumors
Authors: Lebovitz Chandra B. , Bortnik Svetlana B. , Gorski Sharon M.
Published: January 2012

Macroautophagy (or autophagy) is a catabolic cellular process that is both homeostatic and stress adaptive. Normal cells rely on basal levels of autophagy to maintain cellular integrity (via turnover of long-lived proteins and damaged organelles) and increased levels of autophagy to buoy cell survival during various metabolic stresses (via nutrient and energy provision through lysosomal degradation of cytoplasmic components). Autophagy can function in both tumor suppression and tumor progression, and is under investigation in clinical trials as a novel target for anticancer therapy. However, its role in cancer pathogenesis has yet to be fully explored. In particular, it remains unknown whether in vitro observations will be applicable to human cancer patients. Another outstanding question is whether there exists tumor-specific selection for alterations in autophagy function. In this review, we survey reported mutations in autophagy genes and key autophagy regulators identified in human tumor samples and summarize the literature regarding expression levels of autophagy genes and proteins in various cancer tissues. Although it is too early to draw inferences from this collection of in vivo studies of autophagy-related alterations in human cancers, their results highlight the challenges that must be overcome before we can accurately assess the scope of autophagy's predicted role in tumorigenesis. Clin Cancer Res; 18(5); 1214–26. ©2012 AACR.