bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Measurements of Drop Size Distributions in 30 mm Diameter Annular Centrifugal Contactor with 30% TBP-Nitric Acid Biphasic System
Authors: Kumar Shekhar , Mudali U. Kamachi
Published: June 2013

For design and development of liquid-liquid extraction systems, it is essential to have an accurate estimation of hydrodynamic and mass transfer characteristics of the employed contactor. In the present study, experimental evaluations consisted primarily of determining the maximum solution throughput that could be processed without cross-phase contamination at a given rotor speed, O/A flow ratio, and organic-aqueous solution pair in a 30 mm bowl diameter centrifugal contactor. In addition, analysis included experimental drop size determinations as well as holdup determination. The experimental drop size distributions are expected to be helpful for modeling work.
Design and Analysis of Wideband Ladder-Type Film Bulk Acoustic Wave Resonator Filters in Ku-Band
Authors: Nor N. Izza M. , Shah K. , Singh J. , Sauli Z.
Published: June 2013

This paper presents the design of ladder-type filters based on film bulk acoustic wave resonator (FBAR) in Ku-band. The proposed FBAR filter has an insertion loss of −3 dB, out-of-band rejection of −12 dB and 3 dB bandwidth of 1.0 GHz from 15 GHz to 16 GHz. Based on the characteristics of the FBAR filter, the expected characteristics of FBAR resonators are determined by using the 1D numerical analysis. This design proves that it is possible to design a wide-bandwidth FBAR filter in Ku-band.
Left Atrial Myxoma: A Rare Nonatherosclerotic Cause of Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Arcenas Rey Francisco , Ali Mir Ishtiaque
Published: June 2013

Myocardial infarction from coronary artery embolism is a very rare but potentially lethal sequel of left atrial myxoma. Most atrial myxomas causing myocardial infarction are diagnosed retrospectively after a 2D echocardiogram is performed for assessment of myocardial function after a myocardial infarction. We present a relatively healthy 53-year-old male with anterolateral wall myocardial infarction and 100% occlusion at the proximal part of the obtuse marginal branch of the circumflex coronary artery that was subsequently reperfused. A 2D echocardiogram performed two days later revealed a left atrial mass, which was successfully resected and proven to be a myxoma. No recurrence of the tumor was seen on follow-up after four months. An automatic implantable cardioverter defibrillator was placed for residual ischemic cardiomyopathy with clinical improvement.
Lung Cancer Diagnosed More Than Five Years after the Development of Polymyositis/Dermatomyositis
Authors: Uchibori Ken , Ogata Tomoyuki , Shirai Tuyoshi , Yamauchi Shuta , Masuo Masahiro , Chiba Sahoko , Furusawa Haruhiko , Tsuchiya Kimitake , Fujie Toshihide , Tamaoka Meiyo , Sakashita Hiroyuki , Sumi Yuki , Miyazaki Yasunari , Inase Naohiko
Published: June 2013

Background. The patients with polymyositis (PM) and dermatomyositis (DM) often develop the malignancies in their clinical course. The incidence of cancer is estimated at about 15%. The risk of cancer is the highest within the first year of myositis diagnosis and drops substantially thereafter. The patients with lung cancer diagnosed more than 5 years after the onset of PM or DM are the minority. Methods and Patients. We surveyed the medical records of patients with lung cancer over the period from 1995 to 2011. Results. We found five patients who developed lung cancer more than 5 years after the diagnosis of PM/DM. Three patients were male, and two were female. The median age was 61.2 (±11.7). Histological types were diverse. The clinical stages ranged from IA to IV. Three patients had smoking histories. Four patients suffered from DM, and one suffered from PM. All patients received oral corticosteroid therapy. Two patients also received ciclosporin, and another two received azathioprine. Anti-Jo-1 antibody was positive in one patient. Four patients were complicated with interstitial pneumonia (IP). Conclusion. These lung cancers diagnosed more than 5 years after the onset of PM/DM were probably related to IP or smoking but might not be comorbid with PM/DM.
Stem Control of a Sliding-Stem Pneumatic Control Valve Using a Recurrent Neural Network
Authors: Heidari Mohammad , Homaei Hadi
Published: June 2013

This paper presents a neural scheme for controlling an actuator of pneumatic control valve system. Bondgraph method has been used to model the actuator of control valve, in order to compare the response characteristics of valve. The proposed controller is such that the system is always operating in a closed loop, which should lead to better performance characteristics. For comparison, minimum- and full-order observer controllers are also utilized to control the actuator of pneumatic control valve. Simulation results give superior performance of the proposed neural control scheme.
An Evaluation of Interindividual Responses to the Orally Administered Neurotransmitter β-Alanine
Authors: MacPhee Sarah , Weaver Ian N. , Weaver Donald F.
Published: June 2013

Previously, we have identified β-alanine as a potential endogenous anticonvulsant molecule. β-Alanine occurs within the human central nervous system and has been identified as both an inhibitory neuromodulator and neurotransmitter that is bioavailable to brain after oral administration. During preliminary compounding trials to ascertain dosing strategies for β-alanine, we noted pronounced differences in the side effect profile experienced by individuals of Asian and Caucasian descent. To investigate whether ethnicity affects β-alanine-induced side effects, we administered 3 g of β-alanine in 200 mL of fruit drink to ten people of each ethnic background and observed them for 30 minutes. Data collected included basic physical statistics (height, age, and weight) and descriptions of all side effects, as reported by participants. We found that participants of Asian descent experienced paraesthesia, but significantly different in time of onset, intensity, and anatomical localization, as compared to the effects experienced by Caucasian participants. Since β-alanine is an endogenous neurotransmitter substance within human brain, these side effect differences were unexpected.
EPQ Model for Trended Demand with Rework and Random Preventive Machine Time
Authors: Shah Nita H. , Patel Dushyantkumar G. , Shah Digeshkumar B.
Published: June 2013

Economic production quantity (EPQ) inventory model for trended demand has been analyzed with rework facility and stochastic preventive machine time. Due to the complexity of the model, search method is proposed to determine the best optimal solution. A numerical example and sensitivity analysis are carried out to validate the proposed model. From the sensitivity analysis, it is observed that the rate of change of demand has significant impact on the optimal inventory cost. The model is very sensitive to the production and demand rate.
Clinical Manifest X-Linked Recessive Adrenoleukodystrophy in a Female
Authors: Jack Gyda Hlin Skuladottir , Malm-Willadsen Karolina , Frederiksen Anja , Glintborg Dorte , Andersen Marianne
Published: June 2013

Adrenoleukodystrophy (ALD) is a rare X-linked inherited leukodystrophy with a reduced capacity for degradation of very long chain fatty acids (VLCFAs). The intracellular accumulation of VLCFA leads to demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS) and cell destruction in the adrenal glands. ALD primarily affects males; however, females may develop milder symptoms that may be difficult to recognize. The present report describes a 35-year-old female who experienced a feeling of heaviness in the upper and lower limbs, pain in both knees, and difficulty climbing stairs, running, and jumping. Clinical examination revealed decreased sensitivity in the feet, particularly to touch. Deep tendon reflexes in the lower limbs were brisk, and Babinski's sign was present bilaterally. Multiple sclerosis (MS) was excluded, and all clinical and biochemical tests were normal. After two years of progressing symptoms, the patient was reevaluated and plasma levels of VLCFA were found to be elevated. Seven years prior to this finding, the patient had been found to be heterozygous for the missense mutation c.1679C>T, p.Pro560Leu on theABCD1gene (ATP-Binding Cassette subfamily D1). In conclusion, the patient's symptoms could be attributed to ALD. The present case underlines the importance of reevaluating family history in women presenting with vague neurological symptoms.
Microalbuminuria and Glomerular Filtration Rate in Paediatric Visceral Leishmaniasis
Authors: Verma Neena , Lal Chandra Shekhar , Rabidas Vidyanand , Pandey Krishna , Singh Dharmendra , Kumar Sanjay , Verma Rakesh Bihari , Das Pradeep
Published: June 2013

Visceral leishmaniasis, caused byLeishmania donovani, is a serious form of leishmaniasis and fatal if untreated. Nearly half of the VL cases are children. There are very few studies of renal function in pediatric visceral leishmaniasis. The aim of this study was to evaluate renal dysfunction by studying glomerular filtration rate (GFR), microalbuminuria, and microscopic examination of urine. Laboratory analysis was performed on blood and urine samples of 40 parasitologically confirmed pediatric VL cases. Laboratory data of urine examination showed albuminuria in 10% (4/40), white blood cells in 20% (8/40), hematuria in 10% (4/40), microalbuminuria in 37.5% (15/40), and decreased GFR in 27.5% (11/40). Renal involvement was manifested in most of the pediatric VL cases. These findings may help clinicians in decision making for safe and suitable antileishmanial treatment particularly in childhood VL.
Rare Cause of Seizures, Renal Failure, and Gangrene in an 83-Year-Old Diabetic Male
Authors: Viswanathan Stalin , Balamurugesan Kandan
Published: June 2013

We report an 83-year-old diabetic male who presented with acute-onset renal failure, seizures, psychosis, pneumonia, and right foot gangrene. Investigations revealed thrombocytopenia, CSF lymphocytosis, ANA and dsDNA positivity, hypocomplementemia, and pneumonitis following which he was treated with pulse methylprednisolone. He was treated forPseudomonas-related ventilator-associated pneumonia, candiduria, andE. coli-related bedsore infection prior to discharge. He was discharged at request and died 17 days later due to a respiratory infection.
On the Phononic Bandgap of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yamamoto Kohei , Ishii Hiroyuki , Kobayashi Nobuhiko , Hirose Kenji
Published: June 2013

On the phononic bandgap of carbon nanotubes (CNTs), we show in what chirality CNTs have
phononic bandgaps and its dependence on the diameters of CNTs. We find that, though the rule where CNTs have phononic bandgaps is the same as in the electronic structure case, the diameter dependence is different. The phononic bandgaps of the zigzag‐CNTs reveal “three” kinds of diameter dependence due to the anisotropy of graphene phonon band around the K point in k‐space. We also show the crossover from one‐ to two‐dimensional characteristics in phononic bandgaps.
Nitrogen and Potassium Concentrations in the Nutrients Solution for Melon Plants Growing in Coconut Fiber without Drainage
Authors: Gratieri Luiz Augusto , Cecílio Filho Arthur Bernardes , Barbosa José Carlos , Pavani Luiz Carlos
Published: June 2013

With the objective of evaluating the effects of N and K concentrations for melon plants, an experiment was carried out from July 1, 2011 to January 3, 2012 in Muzambinho city, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. The “Bonus no. 2” was cultivated at the spacing of 1.1 × 0.4. The experimental design was a randomized complete block with three replications in a 4 × 4 factorial scheme with four N concentrations (8, 12, 16, and 20 mmol L−1) and four K concentrations (4, 6, 8, and 10 mmol L−1). The experimental plot constituted of eight plants. It was observed that the leaf levels of N and K, of N‐NO3 and of K, and the electrical conductivity (CE) of the substrate increased with the increment of N and K in the nutrients′ solution. Substratum pH, in general, was reduced with increments in N concentration and increased with increasing K concentrations in the nutrients′ solution. Leaf area increased with increments in N concentration in the nutrients solution. Fertigation with solutions stronger in N (20 mmol L−1) and K (10 mmol L−1) resulted in higher masses for the first (968 g) and the second (951 g) fruits and crop yield (4,425 gm−2).
Drug Courts and Community Crime Rates: A Nationwide Analysis of Jurisdiction-Level Outcomes
Authors: Lilley David R.
Published: June 2013

Although a substantial number of studies have reported that drug courts reduced the recidivism of graduates (Wilson et al., 2006), a series of recent analyses suggested that drug courts and similar programs were associated with unintended crime outcomes in cities and counties across the nation (Lilley and Boba, 2008; Miethe et al., 2000; Peters et al., 2002; Worrall et al., 2009). Given that over 220,000 offenders participated in this alternative to incarceration and most did not successfully complete the drug court program, jurisdictional crime may have been impacted. A series of panel data analyses were conducted among more than 5,000 jurisdictions nationwide from 1995 to 2002 to assess the impact of drug court implementation grants on UCR Part I felony offenses. Consistent with prior findings, drug court implementation grants were associated with net increases in vehicle theft, burglary, larceny, and some violent offenses. Possible explanations for these unintended outcomes are discussed along with recommendations for adjustments to current drug court programs across the nation.
Chitosan Combined with Poly-L-arginine as Efficient, Safe, and Serum-Insensitive Vehicle with RNase Protection Ability for siRNA Delivery
Authors: Plianwong Samarwadee , Opanasopit Praneet , Ngawhirunpat Tanasait , Rojanarata Theerasak
Published: June 2013

Chitosan (CS) combined with poly-L-arginine (PLA) was formulated and evaluated for its performance to deliver siRNA to HeLa cells expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP). Compared with the formulations using single polymer in which the polyplexes were completely formed at the weight ratio of >20 : 1 for CS/siRNA or 1 : 1 for PLA/siRNA, the combination of CS and PLA could reduce the amounts of the polymers required for the complete complexation with siRNA, thereby forming positively charged, nanosized polyplex at the weight ratio of CS/PLA/siRNA of 5 : 0.5: 1. In addition, while the transfection efficiency of CS/siRNA and PLA/siRNA was very low at physiological pH (7.4), CS/PLA/siRNA at the optimal weight ratio of 5 : 0.5 : 1 satisfactorily silenced the endogenous EGFP gene at pH 7.4 as well as at pH 6.4 without the deterrent effect from serum. The combined polymers could protect siRNA from RNase degradation over a period of at least 6 h. Furthermore, MTT assay results demonstrated that CS/PLA/siRNA complexes showed acceptably low cytotoxicity with 75% cell viability. Therefore, CS combined with PLA is easy to prepare, safe, and promising for use as an efficient siRNA delivery vehicle.
Shock Wave Solutions for Some Nonlinear Flow Models Arising in the Study of a Non-Newtonian Third Grade Fluid
Authors: Aziz Taha , Moitsheki R. J. , Fatima A. , Mahomed F. M.
Published: June 2013

This study is based upon constructing a new class of closed-form shock wave solutions for some nonlinear problems arising in the study of a third grade fluid model. The Lie symmetry reduction technique has been employed to reduce the governing nonlinear partial differential equations into nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The reduced equations are then solved analytically, and the shock wave solutions are constructed. The conditions on the physical parameters of the flow problems also fall out naturally in the process of the derivation of the solutions.
Off the Beaten Path: Drug Addiction and the Pontine Laterodorsal Tegmentum
Authors: Kohlmeier Kristi A.
Published: June 2013

Drug addiction is a multileveled behavior controlled by interactions among many diverse neuronal groups involving several neurotransmitter systems. The involvement of brainstem-sourced, cholinergic neurotransmission in the development of addiction and in the persistent physiological processes that drive this maladaptive behavior has not been widely investigated. The major cholinergic input to neurons in the midbrain which are instrumental in assessment of reward and assignment of salience to stimuli, including drugs of abuse, sources from acetylcholine- (ACh-) containing pontine neurons of the laterodorsal tegmentum (LDT). Excitatory LDT input, likely cholinergic, is critical in allowing behaviorally relevant neuronal firing patterns within midbrain reward circuitry. Via this control, the LDT is positioned to be importantly involved in development of compulsive, addictive patterns of behavior. The goal of this review is to present the anatomical, physiological, and behavioral evidence suggesting a role of the LDT in the neurobiology underlying addiction to drugs of abuse. Although focus is directed on the evidence supporting a vital participation of the cholinergic neurons of the LDT, data indicating a contribution of noncholinergic LDT neurons to processes underlying addiction are also reviewed. While sparse, available information of actions of drugs of abuse on LDT cells and the output of these neurons as well as their influence on addiction-related behavior are also presented. Taken together, data from studies presented in this review strongly support the position that the LDT is a major player in the neurobiology of drug addiction. Accordingly, the LDT may serve as a future treatment target for efficacious pharmaceutical combat of drug addiction.
Analysis on Shift of Nature Modes of Liquid Sloshing in a 3D Tank Subjected to Oblique Horizontal Ground Motions with Damping Devices
Authors: Wu Chih-Hua , Faltinsen Odd Magnus , Chen Bang-Fuh
Published: June 2013

The extended study of Wu et al. (2012) of sloshing fluid in tanks with internal structures from 2D to 3D is presented in the paper. The phenomenon of liquid sloshing in a 3D tank with various damping devices is solved by the time-independent finite difference method combined with the ghost (fictitious) cell approach. Two types of damping devices, a tank bottom-mounted baffle and a vertically surface-piercing plate, are considered in the study. In this work, the experimental measurement of liquid sloshing in a 3D tank with the baffle is carried out to further validate the present simulation. The comparison of the results between the experimental measurement and the present computation shows good accuracy. The effect of the vertically tank bottom-mounted baffle or the vertically surface-piercing plate on various sloshing waves for the tank under horizontal oblique excitation is discussed and investigated. The phenomena of the shift of the nature frequency of the tank with damping devices due to various oblique horizontal excitations under different sloshing waves are presented in detail. The sloshing wave type is varied due to the influence of the baffle or the plate, and the coexistence of two types of sloshing waves is found for the tank under larger excitation frequencies.
Formation of Germanium Nitride Nanowires on the Surface of Crystalline Germanium
Authors: Jishiashvili David , Kiria Lasha , Shiolashvili Zeinab , Makhatadze Nino , Miminoshvili Elguja , Jishiashvili Alexander
Published: June 2013

We report on the growth mechanisms of germanium nitride nanowires on the surface of crystalline Ge annealed in hydrazine vapor at different temperatures. In spite of the presence of water (and hence oxygen precursors) in hydrazine, the pure germanium nitride single crystal nanowires were produced in the temperature range of 480–580°C. At temperatures below 520°C, the GeOx clusters were formed first at the Ge surface, followed by the nucleation and growth of nanowires through the Vapor-Liquid-Solid mechanism. The Vapor-Solid growth mechanism was observed at temperatures exceeding 520°C, and Ge3N4 nanobelts were produced instead of nanowires with circular cross-sections. All nanostructures have the alpha germanium nitride structure; however, at the nucleation stage, the presence of beta Ge3N4 phase was also observed in the roots of nanowires.
Adipocytokines in Thyroid Dysfunction
Authors: Aydogan Berna İmge , Sahin Mustafa
Published: June 2013

Adipocytokines are important mediators of interorgan crosstalk in metabolic regulation. Thyroid diseases have effects on metabolism and inflammation. The mechanism of these effects is not clear. Recently, there are several reports suggesting this interrelation between adipocytokines and thyroid dysfunction. In this review, we summarize this relation according to the literature.
Near-Infrared Spectroscopy for Anticounterfeiting Innovative Fibers
Authors: Cao Jing , Sharma Suraj
Published: June 2013

Near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has gained increased attention for the qualitative and quantitative evaluation of textile and polymer products. Many NIR instruments have been commercialized to identify the natural and synthetic fibers; however, there is a strong need to have NIR database of these high-performance fibers to detect contraband textile materials rapidly and quantitatively. In this study, NIR spectra of PLA, Kevlar, Spandex and Sorona woven fabrics were collected and studied by several calibration models to identify the fibers. The results indicated that these four innovative fibers had been successfully distinguished by their NIR spectra in combination with preprocessing of 1/X transformation, SNV, and 2nd Savitzky-Golay derivative as well as principal-component-analysis (PCA-) based chemometric methods. Our promising results suggest that NIR spectroscopy is an effective technique to anticounterfeit innovative fibers.
Application of Experimental Modal Analysis to Determine Damping Properties for Stacked Corrugated Boxes
Authors: Ge Changfeng , Sutherland Steven
Published: June 2013

Multilayer stacked corrugated packaging boxes are a common shipping mode in packaging distribution. This study discusses how to determine the damping properties of stacked corrugated boxes using experimental modal analysis (EMA). Prior to the calculation of damping properties, two MATLAB-based digital filters were applied to process the sampled original signals. Both the logarithmic method and the curve fit method are used to compute the multiple damping ratios from the acceleration and displacement response data after the excitation. The study found that the viscous damping and dry friction damping take place in a different time frame in stacked corrugated boxes. This study recommends using the curve fit method to determine damping properties for a multiple-degree-of-freedom system such as stacked corrugated boxes.
Effects of Exothermic/Endothermic Chemical Reactions with Arrhenius Activation Energy on MHD Free Convection and Mass Transfer Flow in Presence of Thermal Radiation
Authors: Maleque Kh. Abdul
Published: June 2013

A local similarity solution of unsteady MHD natural convection heat and mass transfer boundary layer flow past a flat porous plate within the presence of thermal radiation is investigated. The effects of exothermic and endothermic chemical reactions with Arrhenius activation energy on the velocity, temperature, and concentration are also studied in this paper. The governing partial differential equations are reduced to ordinary differential equations by introducing locally similarity transformation (Maleque (2010)). Numerical solutions to the reduced nonlinear similarity equations are then obtained by adopting Runge-Kutta and shooting methods using the Nachtsheim-Swigert iteration technique. The results of the numerical solution are obtained for both steady and unsteady cases then presented graphically in the form of velocity, temperature, and concentration profiles. Comparison has been made for steady flow () and shows excellent agreement with Bestman (1990), hence encouragement for the use of the present computations.
Near‐Infrared Indocyanine Materials for Bioanalysis and Nano‐TiO2 Photoanodes of Solar Cell
Authors: Wang Liqiu , Wang Pengjun , Liu Yang , Nie Weiwei , Lv Xiaofei , Wei Yue , Hao Yangyang , Yu Hailing , Tian Liang , Zheng Lihui , Yang Liuqing
Published: June 2013

Two near‐infrared fluorescence N‐p‐carboxybenzyl indocyanines with the maxima fluorescence emission wavelengths of 565 nm and 641 nm in water, respectively, were synthesized by the ultrasonic method. Compared with those in water, the fluorescence intensity of the dyes became weaker in the solution of an alkali, alkaline‐earth, or transition metal ion, except in Ag+ or Zn2+; in the solution of α‐cyclodextrin or β‐cyclodextrin, the fluorescence intensity of them was increased, even under strong acidic condition. The indocyanines were converted into their succinimidyl active ester for conjugating with NH2 groups of lysine or BSA. Porous nano‐TiO2 film with 68~75 nm thickness was prepared on ITO conductive glass from tetrabutyl titanate by sol‐gel. FESEM showed that the diameter of the nano‐TiO2 particle was 30~50 nm and the pore size was 200~300 nm. The indocyanines with or without the presence of the alkali, alkaline‐earth, transition metal ion, or cyclodextrin could make the nano‐TiO2 films sensitized, and the products could be used as anodes for dye‐sensitized solar cells.
Bioremediating Oil Spills in Nutrient Poor Ocean Waters Using Fertilized Clay Mineral Flakes: Some Experimental Constraints
Authors: Warr Laurence N. , Friese André , Schwarz Florian , Schauer Frieder , Portier Ralph J. , Basirico Laura M. , Olson Gregory M.
Published: June 2013

Much oil spill research has focused on fertilizing hydrocarbon oxidising bacteria, but a primary limitation is the rapid dilution of additives in open waters. A new technique is presented for bioremediation by adding nutrient amendments to the oil spill using thin filmed minerals comprised largely of Fullers Earth clay. Together with adsorbed N and P fertilizers, filming additives, and organoclay, clay flakes can be engineered to float on seawater, attach to the oil, and slowly release contained nutrients. Our laboratory experiments of microbial activity on weathered source oil from the Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico show fertilized clay treatment significantly enhanced bacterial respiration and consumption of alkanes compared to untreated oil-in-water conditions and reacted faster than straight fertilization. Whereas a major portion (up to 98%) of the alkane content was removed during the 1 month period of experimentation by fertilized clay flake interaction; the reduced concentration of polyaromatic hydrocarbons was not significantly different from the non-clay bearing samples. Such clay flake treatment could offer a way to more effectively apply the fertilizer to the spill in open nutrient poor waters and thus significantly reduce the extent and duration of marine oil spills, but this method is not expected to impact hydrocarbon toxicity.
Intrauterine Growth Restriction: Effects of Physiological Fetal Growth Determinants on Diagnosis
Authors: Haram Kjell , Søfteland Eirik , Bukowski Radek
Published: June 2013

The growth of the fetus, which is strongly associated with the outcome of pregnancy, reflects interplay of several physiological and pathological factors. The assessment of fetal growth is based on comparison of birthweight (BW) or estimated fetal weight (EFW) to standards which define reference ranges at a spectrum of gestational ages. Most birthweight standards do not take into account effects of physiological determinants of fetal growth. Additionally, gestational age in many standards is based on the menstrual history and is often inaccurate. Fetal growth norms should be based on an early ultrasound estimate of gestational age. Customized standards, which have included only ultrasound-dated pregnancies, seem to be superior to population-based birthweight norms in predicting perinatal mortality and morbidity. Adjustment for individual variation in customized growth curves reduces false-positive diagnosis of IUGR and may lead to a very significant reduction in intervention for suspected IUGR. Customized growth potential identifies better the risk for adverse outcome than the currently used national standards, but customized charts may fail in detecting growth-restricted stillbirth. An individual’s birthweight is the sum of physiological and pathological influences operating during pregnancy. Growth potential norms are a better discriminator of aberrations of fetal growth than population, ultrasound, and customized norms.
Study on the Formation of Novel Threadlike Structure through Intravenous Injection of Heparin in Rats and Refined Observation in Minipigs
Authors: Tian Yu-Ying , Jing Xiang-Hong , Guo Shun-Gen , Jia Shu-Yong , Zhang Yu-Qing , Zhou Wen-Ting , Huang Tao , Zhang Wei-Bo
Published: June 2013

Objective. To study if the novel threadlike structure (NTS) was caused by coagulation during injecting urethane intraperitoneally and the source of NTS.Methods. Twenty-two SD rats were anaesthetized by urethane injected intraperitoneally. Heparin was injected at 5 minutes before the anaesthesia from femoral vein in 11 rats, and saline was given in the other 11 rats randomly. Six Chinese minipigs were carried to look for NTS. One sample was taken to be stained by DAPI/Phalloidin and observed by a laser scanning confocal microscope.Results. In the group of heparin, 10 rats were found to have NTS with appearance rate of 90.9%, and 9 rats were found to have NTS with the appearance rate of 80.1%. Both groups have 1.81 average numbers of NTS in each rat without significant difference (P>0.05). In the observation of pigs, the NTS was found to prolong from the serous membranes of abdominal wall and organ surface. Histological observation showed elongated nuclei and alignment which is similar to the characteristics of PVS.Conclusion. There is no strong evidence to say that the NTS on organ surface was caused by coagulation of blood. The source of NTS might be a prolonged structure from serous membrane in abdominal cavity during the development and more or less retained after birth.
Behçet’s Disease, Associated Large Vessel Thrombosis, and Coexistent Thrombophilia: A Distinct Nosological Entity?
Authors: Stoimenis Dimitrios , Petridis Nikolaos , Papaioannou Nikos
Published: June 2013

Behçet’s disease (BD) represents a multisystemic disorder that combines features of immune-mediated diseases and autoinflammatory disorders. Even though it is recognized that every type or size of vessel can be affected in this disease, there is an inability to describe a coherent model that sufficiently explains the predilection of certain patients with BD for manifesting severe large vessel thrombosis. The inconsistent epidemiologic data and the complex genetic background of BD, along with the controversy of multiple international studies regarding the coexistence of thrombophilia in patients with BD and large vessel thrombosis, make us think that a percentage of these patients may actually suffer from a distinct clinical entity. The stimulus for this concept arose from the clinical observation of three male patients who were admitted to our clinic due to extended vena cava thrombosis. On the occasion of those clinically and laboratory resembling cases, we performed a literature review concerning the epidemiology of BD, associated thrombosis, and coexistent thrombophilic factors, in order to present some evidence, which sustains our hypothesis that certain patients with large vessel thrombosis, who share features of BD and coexistent thrombophilia, should actually be further investigated for the possibility of suffering from a distinct nosological entity.
Risk Factors for Coronary Drug-Eluting Stent Thrombosis: Influence of Procedural, Patient, Lesion, and Stent Related Factors and Dual Antiplatelet Therapy
Authors: Sudhir Krishnankutty , Hermiller James B. , Ferguson Joanne M. , Simonton Charles A.
Published: June 2013

The complication of stent thrombosis (ST) emerged at a rate of 0.5% annually for first-generation drug-eluting stents (DES), often presenting as death or myocardial infarction. Procedural factors such as stent underexpansion and malapposition are risk factors for ST in patients. The type of lesion being treated and lesion morphology also influence healing after treatment with DES and can contribute to ST. Second-generation DES such as the XIENCE V everolimus-eluting stent differ from the first-generation stents with respect to antiproliferative agents, coating technologies, and stent frame. Improvements in stent structure have resulted in a more complete endothelialization, thereby decreasing the incidence of ST. Bioresorbable scaffolds show promise for restoring vasomotor function and minimizing rates of very late ST. Post-PCI treatment with aspirin and clopidogrel for a year is currently the standard of care for DES, but high-risk patients may benefit from more potent antiplatelet agents. The optimal duration of DAPT for DES is currently unclear and will be addressed in large-scale randomized clinical trials.
InGaAs Quantum Dots on Cross‐Hatch Patterns as a Host for Diluted Magnetic Semiconductor Medium
Authors: Limwongse Teeravat , Thainoi Supachok , Panyakeow Somsak , Kanjanachuchai Songphol
Published: June 2013

Storage density on magnetic medium is increasing at an exponential rate. The magnetic region that stores one bit of information is correspondingly decreasing in size and will ultimately reach quantum dimensions. Magnetic quantum dots (QDs) can be grown using semiconductor as a host and magnetic constituents added to give them magnetic properties. Our results show how molecular beam epitaxy and, particularly, lattice‐mismatched heteroepitaxy can be used to form laterally aligned, high‐density semiconducting host in a single growth run without any use of lithography or etching. Representative results of how semiconductor QD hosts arrange themselves on various stripes and cross‐hatch patterns are reported.
Detection and Enumeration of the Commonest Stool Parasites Seen in a Tertiary Care Center in South India
Authors: Chandrashekar Vani
Published: June 2013

The aim of this study was to identify common stool parasites in patients attending a tertiary care centre in South India. We evaluated 2355 stool samples and parasites were detected in 7.9% of samples. 41.1% of our patients were in the 45–58-year age group. Protozoal infections were the commonest seen in 7.8% of samples. Entamoeba histolytica was the commonest protozoa (4.6%) followed by Entamoeba coli (1.2%) and Giardia (0.8%). Entamoeba histolytica and Entamoeba coli were together seen in 0.63%, and they were the commonest organisms seen in samples with multiple-organism infection. Both were equally detected in diarrheal samples.
A Survey Design for a Sensitive Binary Variable Correlated with Another Nonsensitive Binary Variable
Authors: Yu Jun-Wu , Lu Yang , Tian Guo-Liang
Published: June 2013

Tian et al. (2007) introduced a so-called hidden sensitivity model for evaluating the association of two sensitive questions with binary outcomes. However, in practice, we sometimes need to assess the association between one sensitive binary variable (e.g., whether or not a drug user, the number of sex partner being⩽1 or >1, and so on) and one nonsensitive binary variable (e.g., good or poor health status, with or without cervical cancer, and so on). To address this issue, by sufficiently utilizing the information contained in the non-sensitive binary variable, in this paper, we propose a new survey scheme, called combination questionnaire design/model, which consists of a main questionnaire and a supplemental questionnaire. The introduction of the supplemental questionnaire which is indeed a design of direct questioning can effectively reduce the noncompliance behavior since more respondents will not be faced with the sensitive question. Likelihood-based inferences including maximum likelihood estimates via the expectation-maximization algorithm, asymptotic confidence intervals, and bootstrap confidence intervals of parameters of interest are derived. A likelihood ratio test is provided to test the association between the two binary random variables. Bayesian inferences are also discussed. Simulation studies are performed, and a cervical cancer data set in Atlanta is used to illustrate the proposed methods.
The 𝒮-Transform of Sub-fBm and an Application to a Class of Linear Subfractional BSDEs
Authors: Wang Zhi , Yan Litan
Published: June 2013

Let SH be a subfractional Brownian motion with index 0<H<1. Based on the 𝒮-transform in white noise analysis we study the stochastic integral with respect to SH, and we also prove a Girsanov theorem and derive an Itô formula. As an application we study the solutions of backward stochastic differential equations driven by SH of the form -dYt=f(t,Yt,Zt)dt-ZtdStH, t∈[0,T],YT=ξ, where the stochastic integral used in the above equation is Pettis integral. We obtain the explicit solutions of this class of equations under suitable assumptions.
Reproducibility of NMR Analysis of Urine Samples: Impact of Sample Preparation, Storage Conditions, and Animal Health Status
Authors: Schreier Christina , Kremer Werner , Huber Fritz , Neumann Sindy , Pagel Philipp , Lienemann Kai , Pestel Sabine
Published: June 2013

Introduction.Spectroscopic analysis of urine samples from laboratory animals can be used to predict the efficacy and side effects of drugs. This employs methods combining1H NMR spectroscopy with quantification of biomarkers or with multivariate data analysis. The most critical steps in data evaluation are analytical reproducibility of NMR data (collection, storage, and processing) and the health status of the animals, which may influence urine pH and osmolarity.Methods.We treated rats with a solvent, a diuretic, or a nephrotoxicant and collected urine samples. Samples were titrated to pH 3 to 9, or salt concentrations increased up to 20-fold. The effects of storage conditions and freeze-thaw cycles were monitored. Selected metabolites and multivariate data analysis were evaluated after1H NMR spectroscopy.Results.We showed that variation of pH from 3 to 9 and increases in osmolarity up to 6-fold had no effect on the quantification of the metabolites or on multivariate data analysis. Storage led to changes after 14 days at 4°C or after 12 months at −20°C, independent of sample composition. Multiple freeze-thaw cycles did not affect data analysis.Conclusion.Reproducibility of NMR measurements is not dependent on sample composition under physiological or pathological conditions.
Bayesian Estimation of the Scale Parameter of Inverse Weibull Distribution under the Asymmetric Loss Functions
Authors: Yahgmaei Farhad , Babanezhad Manoochehr , Moghadam Omid S.
Published: June 2013

This paper proposes different methods of estimating the scale parameter in the inverse Weibull distribution (IWD). Specifically, the maximum likelihood estimator of the scale parameter in IWD is introduced. We then derived the Bayes estimators for the scale parameter in IWD by considering quasi, gamma, and uniform priors distributions under the square error, entropy, and precautionary loss functions. Finally, the different proposed estimators have been compared by the extensive simulation studies in corresponding the mean square errors and the evolution of risk functions.
The Necessity of a Systematic Approach for the Use of MSCs in the Clinical Setting
Authors: Raynaud Christophe Michel , Rafii Arash
Published: June 2013

Cell therapy has emerged as a potential therapeutic strategy in regenerative disease. Among different cell types, mesenchymal stem/stromal cells have been wildly studiedin vitro,in vivoin animal models and even used in clinical trials. However, while clinical applications continue to increase markedly, the understanding of their physiological properties and interactions raises many questions and drives the necessity of more caution and supervised strategy in their use.
Adderall Induced Acute Liver Injury: A Rare Case and Review of the Literature
Authors: Vanga Rohini R. , Bal Bikram , Olden Kevin W.
Published: June 2013

Adderall (dextroamphetamine/amphetamine) is a widely prescribed medicine for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is considered safe with due precautions. Use of prescribed Adderall without intention to overdose as a cause of acute liver injury is extremely rare, and to our knowledge no cases have been reported in the English literature. Amphetamine is an ingredient of recreational drugs such as Ecstacy and is known to cause hepatotoxicity. We describe here the case of a 55-year-old woman who developed acute liver failure during the treatment of ADHD with Adderall. She presented to the emergency room with worsening abdominal pain, malaise, and jaundice requiring hospitalization. She had a past history of partial hepatic resection secondary to metastasis from colon cancer which was under remission at the time of presentation. She recovered after intensive monitoring and conservative management. Adderall should be used carefully in individuals with underlying liver conditions.
Detection of the Hematopoietic Stem and Progenitor Cell Marker CD133 during Angiogenesis in Three-Dimensional Collagen Gel Culture
Authors: Akita Masumi , Tanaka Kayoko , Matsumoto Sachiko , Komatsu Kumiko , Fujita Keiko
Published: June 2013

We detected the hematopoietic stem and progenitor cell marker CD133 using immunogold labeling during angiogenesis in a three-dimensional collagen gel culture. CD133-positive cells were present in capillary tubes newly formed from aortic explants in vitro. The CD133-positive cell population had the capacity to form capillary tubes. Lovastatin strongly inhibited cell migration from aortic explants and caused the degradation of the capillary tubes. The present study provides insight into the function of CD133 during angiogenesis as well as an explanation for the antiangiogenic effect of statins.
Biodegradable Polymersomes for the Delivery of Gemcitabine to Panc-1 Cells
Authors: Sood Nimil , Jenkins Walter T. , Yang Xiang-Yang , Shah Nikesh N. , Katz Joshua S. , Koch Cameron J. , Frail Paul R. , Therien Michael J. , Hammer Daniel A. , Evans Sydney M.
Published: June 2013

Traditional anticancer chemotherapy often displays toxic side effects, poor bioavailability, and a low therapeutic index. Targeting and controlled release of a chemotherapeutic agent can increase drug bioavailability, mitigate undesirable side effects, and increase the therapeutic index. Here we report a polymersome-based system to deliver gemcitabine to Panc-1 cells in vitro. The polymersomes were self-assembled from a biocompatible and completely biodegradable polymer, poly(ethylene oxide)-poly(caprolactone), PEO-PCL. We showed that we can encapsulate gemcitabine within stable 200 nm vesicles with a 10% loading efficiency. These vesicles displayed a controlled release of gemcitabine with 60% release after 2 days at physiological pH. Upon treatment of Panc-1 cells in vitro, vesicles were internalized as verified with fluorescently labeled polymersomes. Clonogenic assays to determine cell survival were performed by treating Panc-1 cells with varying concentrations of unencapsulated gemcitabine (FreeGem) and polymersome-encapsulated gemcitabine (PolyGem) for 48 hours. 1 μM PolyGem was equivalent in tumor cell toxicity to 1 μM FreeGem, with a one log cell kill observed. These studies suggest that further investigation on polymersome-based drug formulations is warranted for chemotherapy of pancreatic cancer.
Monoester-DiterpeneAconitumAlkaloid Metabolism in Human Liver Microsomes: Predominant Role of CYP3A4 and CYP3A5
Authors: Ye Ling , Yang Xiao-Shan , Lu Lin-lin , Chen Wei-Ying , Zeng Shan , Yan Tong-Meng , Dong Ling-Na , Peng Xiao-Juan , Shi Jian , Liu Zhong-Qiu
Published: June 2013

Aconitum, widely used to treat rheumatoid arthritis for thousands of years, is a toxic herb that can frequently cause fatal cardiac poisoning.Aconitumtoxicity could be decreased by properly hydrolyzing diester-diterpene alkaloids into monoester-diterpene alkaloids. Monoester-diterpene alkaloids, including benzoylaconine (BAC), benzoylmesaconine (BMA), and benzoylhypaconine (BHA), are the primary active and toxic constituents of processedAconitum. Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes protect the human body by functioning as the defense line that limits the invasion of toxicants. Our purposes were to identify the CYP metabolites of BAC, BMA, and BHA in human liver microsomes and to distinguish which isozymes are responsible for their metabolism through the use of chemical inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and cDNA-expressed CYP enzyme. High-resolution mass spectrometry was used to characterize the metabolites. A total of 7, 8, and 9 metabolites were detected for BAC, BMA, and BHA, respectively. The main metabolic pathways were demethylation, dehydrogenation, demethylation-dehydrogenation, hydroxylation and didemethylation, which produced less toxic metabolites by decomposing the group responsible for the toxicity of the parent compound. Taken together, the results of the chemical inhibitors, monoclonal antibodies, and cDNA-expressed CYP enzymes experiments demonstrated that CYP3A4 and CYP3A5 have essential functions in the metabolism of BAC, BMA, and BHA.
An Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm for Microwave Corrugated Filters Design
Authors: Mantilla-Gaviria Ivan A. , Díaz-Morcillo Alejandro , Balbastre-Tejedor Juan V.
Published: June 2013

A practical and useful application of the Ant Colony Optimization (ACO) method for microwave corrugated filter design is shown. The classical, general purpose ACO method is adapted to deal with the microwave filter design problem. The design strategy used in this paper is an iterative procedure based on the use of an optimization method along with an electromagnetic simulator. The designs of high-pass and band-pass microwave rectangular waveguide filters working in the C-band and X-band, respectively, for communication applications, are shown. The average convergence performance of the ACO method is characterized by means of Monte Carlo simulations and compared with that obtained with the well-known Genetic Algorithm (GA). The overall performance, for the simulations presented herein, of the ACO is found to be better than that of the GA.
Nonlinear Second-Order Model and Equilibrium Point Characteristic Analysis of DC Traction Power Supply System
Authors: Li Y. H. , Tian X. J. , Li X. Q.
Published: June 2013

According to the different features of the DC traction network transient current in the Metro, the electromagnetic transient process of traction power supply system that should be divided into the two forms of short-circuit fault and the low-frequency oscillation was proposed. While traction network short-circuit fault happens, the system model is a weakly nonlinear first-order differential equation, which feeder current is increasing exponentially and eventually stabilized. While the load current becomes low-frequency oscillation current, the system model is a nonlinear second-order differential equation. After linear processing in unique equilibrium point neighborhood, the state space equation of linear system is built, and the structural reason of low-frequency oscillation is revealed by eigenvalue analysis method. The simulation result shows that the simulation current waveforms are consistent with the recorded current waveforms and the division of transient process is reasonable.