bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The L q spectra and Rényi dimension of generalized inhomogeneous self-similar measures
Authors: Liszka Przemysław 
Published: May 2014

AbstractVery recently bounds for the L q spectra of inhomogeneous self-similar measures satisfying the Inhomogeneous Open Set Condition (IOSC), being the appropriate version of the standard Open Set Condition (OSC), were obtained. However, if the IOSC is not satisfied, then almost nothing is known for such measures. In the paper we study the L q spectra and Rényi dimension of generalized inhomogeneous self-similar measures, for which we allow an infinite number of contracting similarities and probabilities depending on positions. As an application of the results, we provide a systematic approach to obtaining non-trivial bounds for the L q spectra and Rényi dimension of inhomogeneous self-similar measures not satisfying the IOSC and of homogeneous ones not satisfying the OSC. We also provide some non-trivial bounds without any separation conditions.
Binary codes and partial permutation decoding sets from the odd graphs
Authors: Fish Washiela , Fray Roland , Mwambene Eric 
Published: May 2014

AbstractFor k ≥ 1, the odd graph denoted by O(k), is the graph with the vertex-set Ω{k}, the set of all k-subsets of Ω = {1, 2, …, 2k +1}, and any two of its vertices u and v constitute an edge [u, v] if and only if u ∩ v = /0. In this paper the binary code generated by the adjacency matrix of O(k) is studied. The automorphism group of the code is determined, and by identifying a suitable information set, a 2-PD-set of the order of k 4 is determined. Lastly, the relationship between the dual code from O(k) and the code from its graph-theoretical complement $\overline {O(k)} $, is investigated.
On the existence of ɛ-fixed points
Authors: Cardinali Tiziana 
Published: May 2014

AbstractIn this paper we prove some approximate fixed point theorems which extend, in a broad sense, analogous results obtained by Brânzei, Morgan, Scalzo and Tijs in 2003. By assuming also the weak demiclosedness property we state two fixed point theorems. Moreover, we study the existence of ɛ-Nash equilibria.
The zero divisor graphs of Boolean posets
Authors: Joshi Vinayak , Khiste Anagha 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
In this paper, it is proved that if B is a Boolean poset and S is a bounded pseudocomplemented poset such that S\Z(S) = {1}, then Γ(B) ≌ Γ(S) if and only if B ≌ S. Further, we characterize the graphs which can be realized as zero divisor graphs of Boolean posets.
Expression of Apoptosis Mediators p53 and Caspase 3, 7, and 9 in Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyposis
Authors: Küpper Daniel Salgado , Valera Fabiana C. P. , Malinsky Rafael , Milanezi Cristiane Maria , Silva João S. , Tamashiro Edwin , Anselmo-Lima Wilma T. 
Published: May 2014

Background The causal factor for the perpetuation of the inflammatory process in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNPs) has been extensively studied. However, little is known about the influence of cell death in this disease. Thus, the molecular assessment of mechanisms involved in apoptosis might shed light on the pathogenesis of CRSwNPs. This study was designed to evaluate the gene expression of different apoptotic factors in patients with NPs compared with control patients. Methods The mRNA expression of the apoptosis mediators caspase 3, 7, and 9 and of p53 protein was analyzed using quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction in 25 NPs and 18 control samples. Results We observed significantly lower expression of p53 and caspase 3 and 9 in patients with CRSwNPs compared with the controls, whereas caspase 7 expression was not significantly different from the controls. Conclusion The reduced expression of these apoptosis factors in CRSwNPs might be related to higher proliferation and the perpetuation of inflammatory cells hindering the control of the disease. A better understanding of the possible influence of apoptosis factors on CRSwNPs could provide rationale for future therapies.
Randomized, Double-Blind, Controlled Study to Evaluate the Effect of Vidian Nerve Cauterization on Lacrimation
Authors: Su Wan-Fu , Liu Shao-Cheng , Hsu Wei-Cherng , Chen Yu-Cheng 
Published: May 2014

Background After vidian neurectomy, low reported rates of dry eye syndrome (DES) seemed incompatible with the high success rate of nerve severance in previous studies. This study aimed at understanding of the pathophysiology of lacrimation and evaluating the effect of thermal injury through the distal stump on the sphenopalatine ganglion (SPG) after vidian neurectomy. Methods A randomized, double-blind, controlled study was performed to evaluate the DES. Eighty precise vidian neurectomies were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to groups 1 and 2. Group 1 represented the cauterization and was used in both distal and proximal nerve stumps, whereas only the proximal nerve stump was cauterized in group 2 subjects. The DES was evaluated with Schirmer's test and ocular surface disease index (OSDI) before and after surgery at 7–10 days and 30 days, respectively. Results In group 1, the Schirmer's test showed a mean decline of 20 mm (20/30, 66%) at 7–10 days and 15 mm (15/30, 50%) at 30 days. In group 2, the Schirmer's test revealed significantly lesser dry eye problems, with a mean decline of 16 mm (16/30; 52%) at 7–10 days and 2 mm (2/30; 6%) at 30 days. The significantly less postoperative dry eye problems in group 2 can be shown by the OSDI at 7–10 days, but not at 30 days. The mean follow-up period was 24 months. No recurrence of nasal allergy symptoms was noted in the follow up period. Conclusion The significant advantage of preservation of the SPG function is justified by Schirmer's test, although the effect did not appear to be comparable with the clinical manifestations evaluated by OSDI at 30 days. Nevertheless, the preservation of distal stump from preventive cauterization can still offer better eye ball moisture in the early evaluation of DES.
Aspirin Hypersensitivity in Patients with Chronic Rhinosinusitis and Nasal Polyposis: Frequency and Contributing Factors
Authors: Nabavi Mohammad , Esmaeilzadeh Hossein , Arshi Saba , Bemanian Mohammad Hassan , Fallahpour Morteza , Bahrami Ahmad , Mortazavi Negar , Kamrava Kamran , Farhadi Mohammad , Taghipour Reza , Rezaei Nima 
Published: May 2014

Background Aspirin-exacerbated respiratory disease (AERD) is a syndrome frequently seen in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis and nasal polyposis (CRSwNP). However, there are few studies on evaluating the prevalence of aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid [ASA]) hypersensitivity in patients with CRSwNP using the oral aspirin challenge (OAC) test. This cross-sectional study was designed to determine the frequency of ASA hypersensitivity and factors associated with it in patients with CRSwNP in Tehran, Iran. Methods Adult patients with CRSwNP who were presented to the asthma and allergy clinic were recruited for the study. After confirming CRS and NP, OAC was performed to evaluate/confirm the diagnosis of ASA hypersensitivity. Atopic evaluation was performed using skin-prick test, nasal smear, blood eosinophil count, and serum total IgE. Results Eighty Iranian patients (43 women and 37 men) with CRSwNP were enrolled (mean age, 38.9 ± 10.7 years). OAC was performed in all of the patients and 39 patients (48.8%) had a positive reaction; among them, 14 (35.8%) had a self-reported history of ASA hypersensitivity. Concomitant asthma, previous polyp surgery, high polyp score, and ASA hypersensitivity history were all associated with positive OAC (p < 0.05). Presence of AERD was not associated with age, stage of asthma, blood eosinophilia, nasal smear eosinophilia, and atopy. Conclusion ASA hypersensitivity is common in patients with CRSwNP in Tehran, Iran. Patients at risk for AERD should be evaluated for the presence of ASA hypersensitivity with ASA provocation challenge test to confirm the diagnosis.
In the (Sub)Tropics Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma Classification of Allergic Rhinitis is More Useful than Perennial–Seasonal Classification
Authors: Larenas-Linnemann Désirée , Michels Alexandra , Dinger Hanna , Arias-Cruz Alfredo , Moreno Marichuy Ambriz , Barajas Martin Bedolla , Javier Ruth Cerino , del Prado Maria de la Luz Cid , Moreno Manuel Alejandro Cruz , Vergara Laura Diego , Almaráz Roberto García , García-Cobas Cecilia Y. , Imperial Daniel Alberto Garcia , Garcia Muñoz Rosa , Colín Dante Hernandez , Zapien Francisco Javier Linares , Agustín Luna Pech Jorge , Campos Juan Jose Matta , Jimenez Norma Martinez , Avalos Miguel Medina , Hernandez Alejandra Medina , Maldonado Albero Monteverde , López Doris Nereida , Nazara Luis Julian Pizano , Sanchez Emanuel Ramirez , López José Domingo Ramos , Rodriguez-Pérez Noel , Rodriguez Ortiz Pablo G. , Shah-Hosseini Kijawasch , Mösges Ralph 
Published: May 2014

Background Two different allergic rhinitis (AR) symptom phenotype classifications exist. Treatment recommendations are based on intermittent–persistent (INT-PER) cataloging, but clinical trials still use the former seasonal AR–perennial AR (SAR-PAR) classification. This study was designed to describe how INT-PER, mild–moderate/severe and SAR-PAR of patients seen by allergists are distributed over the different climate zones in a (subtropical country and how these phenotypes relate to allergen sensitization patterns. Methods Six climate zones throughout Mexico were determined, based on National Geographic Institute (Instituto Nacional de Estadística y Geografía) data. Subsequent AR patients (2–68 years old) underwent a blinded, standardized skin-prick test and filled out a validated questionnaire phenotyping AR. Results Five hundred twenty-nine subjects participated in this study. In the tropical zone with 87% house-dust mite sensitization, INT (80.9%; p < 0.001) and PAR (91%; p = 0.04) were more frequent than in the subtropics. In the central high-pollen areas, there was less moderate/severe AR (65.5%; p < 0.005). Frequency of comorbid asthma showed a clear no -south gradient, from 25% in the dry north to 59% in the tropics (p < 0.005). No differences exist in AR cataloging among patients with different sensitization patterns, with two minor exceptions (more PER in tree sensitized and more PAR in mold positives; p < 0.05). Conclusion In a (sub)tropical country the SAR-PAR classification seems of limited value and bears poor relation with the INT-PER classification. INT is more frequent in the tropical zone. Because PER has been shown to relate to AR severity, clinical trials should select patients based on INT-PER combined with the severity cataloging because these make for a better treatment guide than SAR-PAR.
Chronic Cholesterol Depletion by Lovastatin Suppresses MUC5AC Gene Expression in Human Airway Epithelial Cells
Authors: Lee Eun Jung , Song Kee Jae , Kwon Jin Ho , Park Ah Young , Jo Kwang-Hee , Kim Kyung-Su 
Published: May 2014

Background We recently showed that acute cholesterol depletion in the plasma membrane of NCI-H292 cells by methyl-β-cyclodextrin suppressed IL-1beta–induced MUC5AC gene expression. Because cholesterol depletion is clinically used as an antihypersecretory method, chronic cholesterol depletion by lovastatin is more rational and safe than acute depletion. Therefore, we sought to investigate whether chronic cholesterol depletion by lovastatin is feasible and, if so, suppresses the expression of GMUC5AC in NCI-H292 cells. We also considered whether this alteration of MUC5AC expression is related to IL-1 receptor and mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) activity. Methods After NCI-H292 cells were pretreated with 10 μM of lovastatin for 1 hour, 10 ng/mL of IL-1β was added and cotreated with lovastatin for 24 hours. MUC5AC mRNA expression was then determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction. Cholesterol depletion by lovastatin was measured by modified microenzymatic fluorescence assay and filipin staining. The phosphorylation of IL-1 receptor, ERK, and p38 MAPK as analyzed by Western blot. Results Cholesterol in the plasma membrane was significantly depleted by lovastatin treatment for 24 hours. IL-1beta0-induced MUC5AC mRNA expression was decreased by lovastatin and this decrease occurred IL-1 receptor specifically. Lovastatin suppressed the activation of p38 MAPK but not ERK1/2 in cells activated with IL-1beta. This result suggests that lovastatin-mediated suppression L-1beta–induced MUC5AC mRNA operated only viathe p38 MAPK-dependent pathway. Conclusion Chronic cholesterol depletion in the plasma membrane of NCI-H292 cells may be considered an antihypersecretory method, because it effectively inhibits mucin gene expression of human airway epithelial cells.
Intranasal Landmarks for Adequate L-Strut Preservation during Endoscopic Septoplasty
Authors: Seth Rahul , Haffey Timothy , McBride Jennifer M. , Sindwani Raj 
Published: May 2014

Background A 10- to 15-mm L-strut in the dorsal and caudal areas of the nasal septum is preserved during septoplasty to maintain structural stability and prevent external deformity. However, during endoscopically performed septoplasty the surgeon has a very different perspective, which may create a more challenging situation to ensure adequate strut preservation. No reliable intranasal landmarks have been established. We establish intranasal landmarks that may be used during endoscopic septoplasty (ES) to safely maintain sufficient caudal and dorsal support. A cadaveric anatomic study was performed. Methods Measurements were made using calipers in 15 human cadavers (8 male and 7 female subjects), totaling 30 nasal passages. The caudal strut distance was measured from the inferior concha to the caudal aspect of the quadrangular cartilage. The dorsal strut height was measured from a line parallel to the nasal dorsum that extended from the middle turbinate (MT) axilla to the nasal vestibule (termed the “axillary line”). Results Using the inferior concha and the vertical MT attachment as endoscopic landmarks, the average caudal and dorsal struts measured 18.9 and 16.4 mm, respectively. Strut size was larger in male subjects than female subjects; however, dimensions remained >10 mm in all cadavers, establishing these landmarks as safe and effective for determining extent of cartilage resection. Conclusion The inferior turbinate and vertical MT attachment may be used to guide extent of cartilage resection during ES. Use of the described conchal and axillary lines as landmarks allow for preservation of an adequate L-strut during ES and may reduce support related complications.
Azelastine Desensitization of Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1: A Potential Mechanism Explaining its Therapeutic Effect in Nonallergic Rhinitis
Authors: Singh Umesh , Bernstein Jonathan A. , Haar Lauren , Luther Kristin , Jones Walter K. 
Published: May 2014

Background Capsaicin, a prototypic transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) agonist, has been shown to be more clinically effective in the treatment of nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) compared with other rhinitis subtypes. Azelastine has also been found to be clinically effective in the treatment of NAR but its mechanism(s) of action is still poorly elucidated. This study was designed to determine, using in vitro cell lines, whether topical therapies including azelastine have activity on TRPV1 ion channels similar to capsaicin. Methods The effects of capsaicin (1 μM), azelastine (30 μM), bepotastine (10 μM), olopatadine (10 μM), and fluticasone (200 μM) on TRPV1 channels using mice neuronal cells (Cath.a), as surrogates for submucosal sensory neurons, and human nasal epithelial cells (hNEC) were determined and compared. For azelastine, bepotastine, and capsaicin, which elicited an agonist effect on TRPV1, live cell [Ca2+] signaling in Cath.a cells and hNECs expressing TRPV1 were performed in the absence and presence of capsazepine at 10 μM (a TRPV1 antagonist) using wild-type mouse embryonic fibroblasts (wtMEFs) that express TRPV1 ion channels and TRPV1 homozygous null mutant (TRPV1 -/-) knockout MEF cells as controls to establish TRPV1 channel selectivity. As azelastine has previously been found clinically effective in NAR, additional experiments were performed to determine its ability to desensitize TRPV1 ion channels and its effect on regulating intracellular calcium homeostasis. Results Cath.a cells treated with azelastine, bepotastine, or capsaicin showed a significant increase in TRPV1-dependant (Ca2+) specific cytosolic fluorescence. Continuous treatment with azelastine or capsaicin resulted in desensitization of TRPV1 channels. In hNECs, azelastine stimulation resulted in Ca2+ shifts from the cytosol to mitochondria and overexpression of hematopoietic cell-specific Lyn substrate 1–associated protein X1, which may thus be effective in cytosolic Ca2+ homeostasis. Conclusion Azelastine, similar to capsaicin, exhibits direct activity on TRPV1 ion channels that may represent a novel mechanistic pathway explaining its clinical efficacy in NAR.
Biogeography and phylogenomics of New World Bambusoideae (Poaceae), revisited
Authors: Burke Sean V. , Clark Lynn G. , Triplett Jimmy K. , Grennan Colin P. , Duvall Melvin R. 
Published: May 2014

• Premise of the study: New World Bambusoideae have only recently been studied in a phylogenomic context. Plastome sequences were determined and analyzed from Arundinaria appalachiana, A. tecta, and Olyra latifolia, to refine our knowledge of their evolution and historical biogeography. A correction is noted regarding an error in an earlier report on the biogeography of Cryptochloa.• Methods: Single‐end DNA libraries were prepared and sequenced on the Illumina platform. Complete plastomes were assembled and analyzed with 13 other Poaceae.• Key results: Complete sampling in Arundinaria and an additional species of Olyreae gave a more detailed picture of their evolution/historical biogeography. Phylogenomic analyses indicated that the first major divergence in Arundinaria occurred around 2.3 to 3.2 mya and that Arundinaria tecta and A. appalachiana diverged from their common ancestor around 0.57 to 0.82 mya. Estimates of the divergence of Olyra latifolia from Cryptochloa strictiflora ranged from 14.6 to 20.7 mya. The age of the stem node of Olyreae ranged from an estimated 26.9 to 38.2 mya.• Conclusions: Estimates of divergences in Arundinaria can be correlated with paleoclimatic events including an early Pliocene warming, subsequent cooling, and North American glaciations. Discriminating between alternate evolutionary/biogeographic scenarios in Olyreae is challenging.
Microsatellite markers for the invasive species Bidens alba (Asteraceae)
Authors: Lu Yong‐Bin , Huang Dong‐Ling , Wang Xie , Wu Zheng‐Jun , Tang Shao‐Qing 
Published: May 2014

• Premise of the study: Microsatellite markers were developed in the invasive species Bidens alba (Asteraceae) to assess its population structure and to facilitate tracking its expansion in China.• Methods and Results: Using 454 pyrosequencing, 20 microsatellite primer sets were developed for B. alba. The markers were tested on one population of B. alba (30 individuals) and one population of the closely related B. pilosa (30 individuals) in China. For B. alba, all of the markers were polymorphic, and the number of alleles per locus ranged from three to 32. The expected heterozygosity values were from 0.3787 to 0.9284, and the Shannon–Wiener index was from 0.6796 to 2.8401.• Conclusions: These markers will be useful for investigating the genetic structure, genetic diversity, and invasion dynamics of B. alba and will also be useful in studies of B. pilosa.
High activity of Ag-doped Cd0.1Zn0.9S photocatalyst prepared by the hydrothermal method for hydrogen production under visible-light irradiation
Authors: Yuliati Leny , Kimi Melody , Shamsuddin Mustaffa 
Published: May 2014

Background: The hydrothermal method was used as a new approach to prepare a series of Ag-doped Cd0.1Zn0.9S photocatalysts. The effect of Ag doping on the properties and photocatalytic activity of Cd0.1Zn0.9S was studied for the hydrogen production from water reduction under visible light irradiation.Results: Compared to the series prepared by the co-precipitation method, samples prepared by the hydrothermal method performed with a better photocatalytic activity. The sample with the optimum amount of Ag doping showed the highest hydrogen production rate of 3.91 mmol/h, which was 1.7 times higher than that of undoped Cd0.1Zn0.9S. With the Ag doping, a red shift in the optical response was observed, leading to a larger portion of the visible light absorption than that of without doping. In addition to the larger absorption in the visible-light region, the increase in photocatalytic activity of samples with Ag doping may also come from the Ag species facilitating electron–hole separation.Conclusion: This study demonstrated that Ag doping is a promising way to enhance the activity of Cd0.1Zn0.9S photocatalyst.
A Comparison of Passive and Active Acoustic Sampling for a Bat Community Impacted by White-Nose Syndrome
Authors: Coleman Laci S. , Ford W. Mark , Dobony Chris A. , Britzke Eric R. 
Published: May 2014

Abstract
In the summers of 2011 and 2012, we compared passive and active acoustic sampling for bats at 31 sites at Fort Drum Military Installation, New York. We defined active sampling as acoustic sampling that occurred in 30-min intervals between the hours of sunset and 0200 with a user present to manipulate the directionality of the microphone. We defined passive sampling as acoustic sampling that occurred over a 12-h period (1900–0700 hours) without a user present and with the microphone set in a predetermined direction. We detected seven of the nine possible species at Fort Drum, including the federally endangered Indiana bat Myotis sodalis, the proposed-for-listing northern bat M. septentrionalis, the little brown bat M. lucifugus, and the big brown bat Eptesicus fuscus, which are impacted by white-nose syndrome (WNS); and the eastern red bat Lasiurus borealis, the hoary bat L. cinereus, and the silver-haired bat Lasionycteris noctivagans, which are not known to be impacted by WNS. We did not detect two additional WNS-impacted species known to historically occur in the area: the eastern small-footed bat Myotis leibii and the tri-colored bat Perimyotis subflavus. Single-season occupancy models revealed lower detection probabilities of all detected species using active sampling versus passive sampling. Additionally, overall detection probabilities declined in detected WNS-impacted species between years. A paired t-test of simultaneous sampling on 21 occasions revealed that overall recorded foraging activity per hour was greater using active than passive sampling for big brown bats and greater using passive than active sampling for little brown bats. There was no significant difference in recorded activity between methods for other WNS-impacted species, presumably because these species have been so reduced in number that their “apparency” on the landscape is lower. Finally, a cost analysis of standard passive and active sampling protocols revealed that passive sampling is substantially more cost-effective than active sampling per hour of data collection. We recommend passive sampling over active sampling methodologies as they are defined in our study for detection probability and/or occupancy studies focused on declining bat species in areas that have experienced severe WNS-associated impacts.