bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in Histological Features of Nasal Polyps in a Korean Population over a 17‐year Period
Authors: Kim Su Jin , Lee Kun Hee , Kim Sung Wan , Cho Joong Saeng , Park Yong Koo , Shin Seung Youp
Published: June 2013

Objective

Nasal polyps can be categorized as eosinophilic or non‐eosinophilic, depending on inflammatory cell infiltration. There are geographical differences in the prevalence of types of pathologic polyps. The aim of this study was to evaluate the change in the prevalence of histological subtypes of polyps over time in a Korean population.

Study Design

A retrospective cross‐sectional study with histologic analysis.

Setting

A single academic medical center.

Subjects and Methods

A total of 230 patients with nasal polyps were enrolled between 1993‐1994 (group A) and 2010‐2011 (group B). Specimens were fixed in formalin and embedded into paraffin blocks. Slides were stained with hematoxylin‐eosin (H&E) and were subsequently reviewed by 2 of the authors. The numbers of eosinophils per high power field (HPF), as well as other cellular, epithelial, and stromal markers, were recorded.

Results

We compared nasal polyp eosinophil counts according to time period. The average eosinophil count/HPF increased from 6.8 in group A to 19.3 in group B (P =. 006). The prevalence of eosinophilic polyps also increased from 24.0% in group A to 50.9% in group B (P <. 001). Among other histologic markers, lymphocytes, basement membrane thickening, and gland hyperplasia showed significant differences between groups.

Conclusion

After comparison of histopathologic findings of nasal polyps from 1993 and 2011 at 1 academic medical center in Korea, the prevalence of eosinophilic nasal polyps, which are known to be rare among Asians, has significantly increased.
Repair of right ventricle rupture caused by left coronary artery occlusion
Authors: Tarui Tatsuya , Ikeda Masahiro
Published: July 2013

A 67-year-old man was admitted with right ventricular free wall rupture secondary to occlusion of the left anterior descending artery. Emergency coronary angiography showed total occlusion of the proximal left anterior descending artery and severe stenosis of the proximal right coronary artery. Echocardiography revealed acute cardiac tamponade, and free wall rupture of the heart was suspected. At surgery under cardiopulmonary bypass, closure was achieved using mattress sutures with pledgets.
Thrombi migration to atrium diagnosed by transesophageal echocardiography
Authors: Erdemli Özcan , Demir Aslı , Güçlü Çiğdem Yildirim , Karadeniz Ümit , Çağlı Kerim
Published: July 2013

Two days before surgery in a 70-year-old man with renal cell carcinoma, transthoracic echocardiography showed a dense mass in the inferior vena cava, lying proximally, but no mass was observed in the right atrium. Intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography revealed unexpected tumor thrombi in the right atrium, and the surgical plan was changed. This case highlights the importance of intraoperative transesophageal echocardiography in patients with renal cell carcinoma.
Double patch repair for a double ventricular rupture
Authors: Sharma Divyesh , Manoharan Ganesh , Parissis Haralabos
Published: July 2013

We describe the case of a 77-year-old woman with recent acute myocardial infarction complicated by ventricular septal defect and formation of a pseudoaneurysm, which were successfully treated surgically with a double patch repair. This case highlights the importance of early recognition of this serious complication, using clinical and echocardiographic examinations, and the various challenges encountered in surgical repair.
Case of single right atrial diverticulum and review of etiology and management
Authors: Borgohain Shyamadeep , Malik Lalitaditya , Prasad Sarveshwer , Gupta Anubhav , Grover Vijay , Gupta Vijay Kumar
Published: July 2013

Single diverticulum of the right atrium is an exceedingly rare congenital malformation. We describe successful surgical resection in a 22-year-old asymptomatic woman with single right atrial diverticulum. An attempt is also made to throw light on the etiology and management of this disease entity.
Why people use social networking services in Korea
Authors: Kim Ju Yeon , Chung Namho , Ahn Kyung Mo
Published: June 2013

Social network services (SNS) provide ways for people to express their thoughts, feelings, and experiences through computer-mediated communication. As SNS become increasingly more popular, studies on individuals’ usage motivations of SNS are conducted to explain the acceptance of SNS and their usage intentions. However, situations in which people become stressed with SNS are also developing. Therefore, it is necessary to reconsider the objectives that people are pursuing when they are using SNS. Using motivation theory and self-disclosure theory, this study in Korea examined the factors influencing self-disclosure and the mediating role of self-disclosure examined in terms of subjective well-being. Based on the results of structural equation model analysis, communication in the SNS had the biggest impacts on self-disclosure; information, entertainment, and privacy concerns also were influential. The results also indicated that self-disclosure caused subjective well-being. This study is one of the first to examine the mediating role of self-disclosure on subjective well-being in social network services.
Explaining cosmopolitan coverage
Authors: Brüggemann Michael , Königslöw Katharina Kleinen-von
Published: June 2013

Research on international news flows has mostly aimed to explain why certain countries and regions are more reported on than others. There are few studies, however, on the reasons why some media outlets cover foreign affairs more intensively than others. This article thus extends our current knowledge by mapping different degrees of cosmopolitan coverage and identifying key conditions that help to explain these differences. Analysing foreign reporting and transnational debate in 12 newspapers from six European countries the study then employs FsQCA as the method for identifying the best ‘recipes’ – defined as the most relevant constellations of conditions for explaining cosmopolitan coverage. These causal recipes combine conditions at the level of the media outlet and conditions related to the country where the respective outlet is situated.
Intranasal formulation of erythropoietin (EPO) showed potent protective activity against amyloid toxicity in the Aβ25-35 non-transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Maurice Tangui , Mustafa Muhammad-Hariri , Desrumaux Catherine , Keller Emeline , Naert Gaëlle , García-Barceló María de la C , Rodríguez Cruz Yamila , Garcia Rodríguez Julío César
Published: June 2013

Erythropoietin (EPO) promotes neurogenesis and neuroprotection. We here compared the protection induced by two EPO formulations in a rodent model of Alzheimer’s disease (AD): rHu-EPO and a low sialic form, Neuro-EPO. We used the intracerebroventricular administration of aggregated Aβ25-35 peptide, a non-transgenic AD model. rHu-EPO was tested at 125–500 µg/kg intraperitoneally and Neuro-EPO at 62–250 µg/kg intranasally (IN). Behavioural procedures included spontaneous alternation, passive avoidance, water-maze and object recognition, to address spatial and non-spatial, short- and long-term memories. Biochemical markers of Aβ25-35 toxicity in the mouse hippocampus were examined and cell loss in the CA1 layer was determined. rHu-EPO and Neuro-EPO led to a significant prevention of Aβ25-35-induced learning deficits. Both EPO formulations prevented the induction of lipid peroxidation in the hippocampus, showing an antioxidant activity. rHu-EPO (250 µg/kg) or Neuro-EPO (125 µg/kg) prevented the Aβ25-35-induced increase in Bax level, TNFα and IL-1β production and decrease in Akt activation. A significant prevention of the Aβ25-35-induced cell loss in CA1 was also observed. EPO is neuroprotective in the Aβ25-35 AD model, confirming its potential as an endogenous neuroprotection system that could be boosted for therapeutic efficacy. We here identified a new IN formulation of EPO showing high neuroprotective activity. Considering its efficacy, ease and safety, IN Neuro-EPO is a new promising therapeutic agent in AD.
Determining the Length of Posttherapeutic Follow-up for Cancer Patients Using Competing Risks Modeling
Authors: Somda Serge M. A. , Leconte Eve , Kramar Andrew , Penel Nicolas , Chevreau Christine , Delannes Martine , Rios Maria , Filleron Thomas
Published: June 2013

Background/Objective. After a curative treatment for cancer, patients enter into a posttherapeutic surveillance phase. This phase aims to detect relapses as soon as possible to improve the outcome. Mould and others predicted with a simple formula, using a parametric mixture cure model, how long early-stage breast cancer patients should be followed after treatment. However, patients in posttherapeutic surveillance phase are at risk of different events types with different responses according to their prognostic factors and different probabilities to be cured. This paper presents an adaptation of the method proposed by Mould and others, taking into account competing risks. Our loss function estimates, when follow-up is stopped at a given time, the proportion of patients who will fail after this time and who could have been treated successfully. Method. We use the direct approach for cumulative incidence modeling in the presence of competing risks with an improper Gompertz probability distribution as proposed by Jeong and Fine. Prognostic factors can be taken into account, leading to a proportional hazards model. In a second step, the estimates of the Gompertz model are combined with the probability for a patient to be treated successfully in case of relapse for each event type. The method is applied to 2 examples, a numeric fictive example and a real data set on soft tissue sarcoma. Results and Conclusion. The model presented is a good tool for decision making to determine the total length of posttherapeutic surveillance. It can be applied to all cancers regardless of the localizations.
A Framework for Evaluating Markers Used to Select Patient Treatment
Authors: Janes Holly , Pepe Margaret S. , Huang Ying
Published: June 2013

There is growing interest in markers that can be used to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from a treatment. For example, the Gail breast cancer risk prediction model may be useful for identifying a subset of older women for whom the benefit of tamoxifen for breast cancer prevention is likely to outweigh the harm. Two general classes of approaches to evaluating treatment selection markers have been developed. The first uses data on a cohort of untreated subjects to develop a risk prediction model, such as the Gail model, which is used to identify a high-risk subset of subjects. This model is paired with a measure of treatment effect to assess the impact of identifying and treating the high-risk subset. The second approach uses data from a randomized trial to model the treatment effect on a composite outcome that includes all effects of treatment (positive and negative). The treatment effect model is used to identify a subset of subjects with positive treatment effects and to assess the impact of identifying and treating this subset. We describe a framework that includes both existing approaches as special cases. In doing so, we review the existing approaches, clarify their underlying assumptions, and facilitate the evaluation of markers under less restrictive assumptions.
Comparative study of pregnancy outcomes between day 3 embryo transfer and day 5 blastocyst transfer in patients with progesterone elevation
Authors: Li Rui-Rui , Dong Yue-Zhi , Guo Yi-Hong , Sun Ying-Pu , Su Ying-Chun , Chen Fan
Published: June 2013

Objective

To explore the effects of progesterone (P) elevation on pregnancy outcomes of day 3 embryo and day 5 blastocyst transfer.

Methods

Clinical outcomes (pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy rates) following day 3 embryo and day 5 blastocyst transfer cycles were retrospectively analysed. Day 3 embryo and day 5 blastocyst transfer cycles were divided into normal P level (P ≤ 1.5 ng/ml) and P elevation group (P > 1.5 ng/ml), based on the serum P level on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration.

Results

A total of 2868 cycles were analysed. In day 3 embryo transfer cycles ( n = 2345), the clinical pregnancy rate was significantly higher in the normal P level group compared with the P elevation group (55.4% versus 46.7%, respectively) and the ectopic pregnancy rate was significantly lower in the normal P level group compared with the P elevation group (2.8% versus 7.9%, respectively). In day 5 blastocyst transfer cycles ( n = 523), there were no significant differences in the clinical pregnancy and ectopic pregnancy rates between the two groups, based on the P level.

Conclusion

These preliminary findings suggest that day 5 blastocyst transfer should be adopted for patients with P elevation on the day of hCG administration.
‘Human-Centred’ Development? Rethinking ‘Freedom’ and ‘Agency’ in Discourses of International Development
Authors: Chandler David
Published: June 2013

Today’s dominant discourses of international development increasingly focus on human agency as the measure of development in terms of individual capabilities. The individualised understanding of development takes a ‘human-centred’ or ‘agent-orientated’ view of the barriers to development. This article seeks to critically engage with the view of the human and of human agency articulated within this approach. In this discourse, development is taken out of a macro-political-economy context, in which development policies are shaped by social and political pressures or state-led policies. Foucault’s insights on the rearticulation of power – shifting from the state-based, sovereign and disciplinary approaches of government ruling over society, towards the biopolitical or ‘human-centred’ approaches of governance through social processes – will be used to critically engage with the capabilities approach. This article genealogically draws out the changing nature of Western discourses of development and the understanding of policy practices as promoting the empowerment of the post-colonial other in order to examine how development and autonomy have been radically differently articulated in discourses of Western power and how today’s discursive framing feeds on and transforms colonial and early post-colonial approaches to the human subject.
Public Pedagogy, Private Lives
Authors: McLean Scott
Published: June 2013

Self-help literature has become an important domain of adult learning in North America. Self-help books offer readers advice on how to take charge of their lives and achieve goals such as prosperity, love, happiness, wellness, and self-actualization. Despite the popularity of self-help books, there has been little research about them from scholars of adult education. Furthermore, existing literature has tended to be speculative rather than empirical: few studies have assessed learning processes and other subjective outcomes among those who read self-help books. Through presenting results of qualitative interviews with female readers of self-help books, this article demonstrates how informal adult learning takes place through interaction with products of popular culture. The article argues that self-help reading should be included in the study of public pedagogy and that further empirical work is needed to understand the impact of reading such books, among other experiences of popular culture, on adults.
Urban Form and Residential Energy Use
Authors: Ko Yekang
Published: June 2013

The effect of urban form on residential energy use has attracted much research, but it may be difficult to grasp the conclusions of that research because of inconsistencies in scope and methods employed. This article reviews the literature on how urban form affects residential energy use, particularly energy for space-conditioning (heating and cooling). Climate-responsive design principles are examined first and linked to research on how several factors affect residential energy use: housing type, density (physical compactness and dwelling unit density), community layout (street orientation and building configuration), and planting and other surface coverage. The research on each of these factors is summarized under three categories: experiments, simulation modeling, and statistical analysis of empirical data. Finally, implications for future research are discussed and suggestions for planning are made.
Defects of wave patterns from tungsten carbide/stainless steel brazed micro-end-milling for printed circuit board machining
Authors: Kim Jin-Woong , Yoon Hae-Sung , Lee Hee-Shin , Lee Kyung-Eun , Ahn Sung-Hoon
Published: June 2013

The increasing demand for green products and strategies has led to research on reducing manufacturing costs and energy consumptions. In this study, the brazing method was applied to the fabrication of a micro-end-mill for printed circuit board manufacturing, and the machining properties of the fabricated tools were experimentally investigated. A tungsten carbide cutting edge was brazed onto a stainless steel shank using silver filler, and this material rod was fabricated into a micro-end-mill with a diameter of 800 µm. Machining results for this micro-end-mill were observed via scanning electron microscopy, and an abnormal wave pattern was observed on the cutting surface when using the brazed tool. The woven structure of the workpiece is thought to be the cause of this phenomenon; the wave pattern can be removed by controlling the machining conditions. Since the brazing technique is readily applicable to micro-scale cutting tools, it is expected that these results will contribute to improved machining quality when using brazed micro-cutting tools, as well as improved manufacturing efficiency.
Promoting Student Transition From Entitlement Services to Eligibility Resources
Authors: Peterson Lori Y. , Van Dycke Jamie L. , Roberson Rosemary L. , Sedaghat Jennifer M.
Published: June 2013

Disability-related legislation offers two different support systems for youth with disabilities: one of entitlement to services and one of eligibility for resources. This article offers guidance for individuals with disabilities, and the families and service providers who support them, as they prepare to navigate the transition between support systems and learn the rights and responsibilities involved in postsecondary education, employment, and adult living options. Also included are recommendations for instructing students in their rights and responsibilities.
Psychological Sense of Community
Authors: Boyd Neil M. , Nowell Branda
Published: July 2013

This article introduces a new construct to the field of management called Psychological Sense of Community (PSOC). This is important because management scholars are calling for the creation of communities in organizations in an environment that lacks appropriate construct development. The aims of this article are threefold: (a) develop a working definition of PSOC via a review of the extant literature on PSOC from other disciplines with the goal of translating it into the domain of management, (b) synthesize findings from parallel literatures on the outcomes of PSOC with an eye toward exploring the relevance of such outcomes in management contexts, and (c) assess the value of PSOC as it relates to its uniqueness in relation to other prominent management constructs and its scope of applicability in a variety of management inquiry areas.
Lipid-Lowering Agents
Authors: Ewang-Emukowhate Mfon , Wierzbicki Anthony S.
Published: June 2013

The role of lipid lowering in reducing the risk of mortality and morbidity from cardiovascular disease (CVD) is well established. Treatment particularly aimed at decreasing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is effective in reducing the risk of death from coronary heart disease and stroke. Statins form the cornerstone of treatment. However, in some individuals with a high risk of CVD who are unable to achieve their target LDL-C due to either intolerance or lack of efficacy, there is the need for alternative therapies. This review provides an overview of the different classes of currently available lipid-lowering medications including statins, fibrates, bile acid sequestrants (resins), and omega-3 fatty acids. Data are presented on their indications, pharmacology, and the relevant end point clinical trial data with these drugs. It also discusses the human trial data on some novel therapeutic agents that are being developed including those for homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia—the antisense oligonucleotide mipomersen and the microsomal transfer protein inhibitor lomitapide. Data are presented on phase II and III trials on agents with potentially wider applications, cholesterol ester transfer protein inhibitors and proprotein convertase subtilisin kexin 9 inhibitors. The data on a licensed gene therapy for lipoprotein lipase deficiency are also presented.
Research Utilization in the Social Sciences
Authors: Cherney Adrian , Head Brian , Boreham Paul , Povey Jenny , Ferguson Michele
Published: June 2013

Social science disciplines generate diverse forms of research utilization, given the various contexts in which disciplinary knowledge is produced and translated for the fields of policy and practice. We examine this issue from the perspective of academic researchers in the social sciences across education, economics, sociology, political science, and psychology. We use survey data from a study of university-based social science researchers in Australia to examine factors that influence perceptions of the policy uptake of social research. Our results show that disciplinary and methodological context matters when it comes to understanding the translation, dissemination, and utilization of academic social research.
Effect of Aqueous Extract and Fractions of Fagonia arabica on In Vitro Anticoagulant Activity
Authors: Chourasia Sweta R. , Kashyap Rajpal Singh , Deopujari Jayant Y. , Purohit Hemant J. , Taori Girdhar M. , Daginawala Hatim F.
Published: June 2013

Fagonia arabica (FA) is a deobstruent and blood purifier, which possesses thrombolytic and antioxidant activities. In this study, the anticoagulant effects of FA and its derived fractions were evaluated. Plasma recalcification was performed with multisolvent extracts of FA and then with extracts prepared successively with increasing polarity of the solvents. Aqueous extract was the most potent anticoagulant extract, which was fractionated by thin-layer chromatography and column chromatography. Five fractions collected were checked for their anticoagulation effect. The most potent fraction was screened for phytoconstituents. Aqueous extract of FA is the most active anticoagulant (31 minutes). Results were statistically significant when compared to heparin (38 minutes) and saline (4.04 minutes; P > .001). The Fifth fraction (FA5), the most potent fraction (27 minutes), was found positive for flavonoids, saponin, tannin, triterpenoids, carbohydrates, reducing sugar, and monosaccharides. Aqueous FA and fraction FA5 were most active in in vitro anticoagulation, and any of the phytochemicals identified could be considered the active component.
The Role of the Nonspecific Inflammatory Markers in Determining the Anatomic Extent of Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Bakirci Eftal Murat , Topcu Selim , Kalkan Kamuran , Tanboga Ibrahim Halil , Borekci Abdurrezzak , Sevimli Serdar , Acikel Mahmut
Published: June 2013

We aimed to investigate the relationship between the extent of venous thromboembolism (VTE) and nonspecific inflammatory markers such as neutrophil to lymphocyte ratio (NLR) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP). We retrospectively enrolled 77 patients with VTE (distal deep vein thrombosis [DVT], n = 19; proximal DVT, n = 32; and pulmonary thromboembolism [PTE], n = 26) and 34 healthy controls. In the performed analysis of variance, the levels of white blood cell, NLR, and hs-CRP were clearly different among the groups (control, distal and proximal DVT, and PTE) ( P < .001). Especially, a significant increase from the control group to the DVT and PTE was observed in the analysis made for NLR. In the performed receiver–operating characteristic curve analysis, area under curve (AUC) = 0.849 and P < .001 were detected for NLR > 1.84. For this value, the sensitivity and specificity were determined as 88.2% and 67.6%, respectively. The NLR is an inexpensive and a readily available marker that may be effective in determining the extent of VTE, and it is useful for risk stratification in patients with VTE.
Dynamic features of passive whole-spacecraft vibration isolation platform based on non-probabilistic reliability
Authors: Zhang Ye-wei , Fang Bo , Zang Jian
Published: July 2013

A whole-spacecraft vibration isolation platform can improve the dynamic environment during satellite launches. In this paper, the dynamic characteristics of a whole-spacecraft vibration isolation platform with uncertain parameters are investigated. The governing equation of the platform is derived and the non-probabilistic reliability theory is utilized to analyze the dynamic characteristics. Then, the numerical results are carried out and compared with the experimental data. It is found that non-probabilistic reliability theory is a powerful tool to reveal the dynamic characteristics, which may lead to a new design of the platform with enhanced security and reliability.
Stochastic stabilization of quasi-generalized Hamiltonian systems
Authors: Ling Quan , Jin Xiaoling , Wang Yong , Huang Zhilong
Published: July 2013

A procedure for designing a feedback control to asymptotically stabilize, with probability one, quasi-generalized Hamiltonian systems subject to stochastically parametric excitations is proposed. First, the motion equations of controlled systems are reduced to lower-dimensional averaged Itô stochastic differential equations by using the stochastic averaging method. Second, a dynamic programming equation for the averaged system with an appropriate performance index (with undetermined parameters in cost function) is established based on the dynamic programming principle, and the optimal control law is derived from a minimization condition with respect to control. Third, the Lyapunov function method is adopted to evaluate the stability boundary of asymptotic stability with probability one for the uncontrolled/controlled systems. Finally, the parameters in cost function are selected to guarantee the sufficient stability of the controlled systems. Numerical results for a nine-dimensional mathematical system and a three-dimensional practical system, which describes a structure including viscoelastic element, illustrate the effectiveness of the feedback control strategy, and stability domains can be obviously enlarged when imposing the feedback controls on the original systems.
Studies on vibration isolation for a multiple flywheel system in variable configurations
Authors: Luo Qing , Li Dongxu , Zhou Weiyong
Published: July 2013

Flywheels are widely used on-board spacecraft for attitude control or energy storage. However, micro-vibrations generated by flywheels will influence the performance of high-sensitivity instruments on-board the spacecraft. This study addresses the dynamic modeling and analysis of the micro-vibration isolation of flywheel assemblies. Firstly, an analytical model was developed to describe the coupled multiple flywheel system (MFS) and multi-axis isolation system, with equations in state-space form presented for control purposes. This analytical model properly reflects the mass and inertia properties, the gyroscopic effects and the flexible modes of the coupled system, which can be generalized for isolation applications when multiple flywheels are mounted together. Secondly, the analytical model was validated using the MSC.NASTRAN software based on finite element techniques. Finally, using the proposed model, we investigated the coupled dynamics of the MFS and the isolation system. The results show that the mass and inertial properties and the gyroscopic effects of the MFS will induce couplings between the structural modes. The gyroscopic effects of one flywheel interact with or counteract the effects of the others, which will produce complex vibrational modes and affect the isolation performance accordingly. Thus, the coupled dynamics within the system should receive attention during isolation design for the MFS.
Physico-chemical stability of eribulin mesylate containing concentrate and ready-to-administer solutions
Authors: Spindeldreier Kirsten , Thiesen Judith , Lipp Hans-Peter , Krämer Irene
Published: June 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the stability of commercially available eribulin mesylate containing injection solution as well as diluted ready-to-administer solutions stored under refrigeration or at room temperature.

Methods

Stability was studied by a novel developed stability-indicating reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC) assay with ultraviolet detection (detection wavelength 200 nm). Triplicate test solutions of eribulin mesylate containing injection concentrate (0.5 mg/mL) and with 0.9% sodium chloride solution diluted ready-to-administer preparations (0.205 mg/mL eribulin mesylate in polypropylene (PP) syringes, 0.020 mg/mL eribulin mesylate in polypropylene/polyethylene (PE) bags) were stored protected from light either at room temperature (25℃) or under refrigeration (2–8℃). Samples were withdrawn on day 0 (initial), 1, 3, 5, 7, 14, 21 and 28 of storage and assayed. Physical stability was determined by measuring the pH value once a week and checking for visible precipitations or colour changes.

Results

The stability tests revealed that concentrations of eribulin mesylate remained unchanged over a period of 28 days irrespective of concentration, container material or storage temperature. Neither colour changes nor visible particles have been observed. The pH value varied slightly over time but remained in the stability favourable range of 5–9.

Conclusion

Eribulin mesylate injection (0.5 mg/mL) is physico-chemically stable over a period of 28 days after first puncture of the vial. After dilution with 0.9% NaCl vehicle solution, ready-to-administer eribulin mesylate injection solutions (0.205 mg/mL in PP syringe) and infusion solutions (0.02 mg/mL in prefilled PP/PE bags) are physico-chemically stable for a period of at least four weeks either refrigerated or stored at room temperature. For microbiological reasons storage under refrigeration is recommended.
In pursuit of happiness: A sociological examination of employee identifications amongst a ‘happy’ call-centre workforce
Authors: Jenkins Sarah , Delbridge Rick
Published: July 2013

While psychologists and economists have concerned themselves with employee happiness and well-being, critical organizational theorists have rarely examined employees’ positive responses at work. To explain why call-centre employees in our study responded positively to their organization we adopt a relational sociological approach to examine employee happiness and well-being. This approach emphasizes two main features: firstly, it is sensitive to the interaction of management practices and employee agency in how ‘happiness’ is constructed and interpreted in organizations, including an assessment of power relations; secondly, this approach acknowledges the importance of the wider external context in explanations of why organizations pursue happiness. This article applies these sociological insights to the organizational identifications literature to assess the mechanisms of employee identifications. In this case, there are three mechanisms of identification, a) the organizational value system; b) social relations at work including interactions between employees, the owners and their clients and c) the nature of work. Significantly, these three features converged to produce overlapping and mutually reinforcing identifications.
Analysis of wheel/rail adhesion under oil contamination with surface roughness
Authors: Wu Bing , Wen Zefeng , Wang Hengyu , Jin Xuesong
Published: June 2013

The objective of this study is to investigate the adhesion characteristics of wheel/rail under oil contamination with consideration of surface roughness using a three-dimensional model of wheel/rail in rolling contact. A partial elastohydrodynamic lubrication theory is employed in the model. An under-relaxation revision on the film thickness is used to keep the simulation procedure stable. The dependence of the wheel/rail adhesion coefficient on train speed, surface roughness amplitude, parameter of roughness orientation and axle load is studied under oil contamination. Moreover, the numerical solutions of a two-dimensional model are compared with those of the three-dimensional model. In addition, a good agreement has been found between the numerical results and the experimental results obtained by a JD-1 wheel/rail simulation facility, which consists of a small wheel roller serving as locomotive or rolling stock wheel and a large wheel roller serving as rail.
Experimental investigations on influence of mist cooling using nanofluids on machining parameters in turning AISI 1040 steel
Authors: Amrita M , Srikant RR , Sitaramaraju AV , Prasad MMS , Krishna P Vamsi
Published: June 2013

Soluble oils are the largest class of oils used in metal cutting industry. Flood cooling involves problems related to its treatment and disposal. Minimum quantity lubrication in the form of mist application can be used to replace flood cooling. But as less amount of cutting fluid is used in minimum quantity lubrication, its capacity to carry away heat and providing adequate lubrication is limited. Hence, the heat-carrying and lubricating ability of soluble oil has to be enhanced. Graphite has better lubricating and cooling properties and hence inclusion of graphite nanoparticles in cutting fluid may help in formulating a better coolant in machining operation. This article compares the performance of mist application of nanographite-soluble oil with dry lubrication, flood lubrication and mist application of soluble oil without nanographite in turning AISI 1040 steel. Performance is evaluated based on experimental measurement of average chip–tool interface temperature, tool wear and cutting forces. The results showed that use of nanographite-soluble oil in mist application has greatly improved the cutting conditions by lowering the temperature generated, reducing the tool wear and reducing the cutting forces.
Magnetic resonance imaging correlates of physical disability in relapse onset multiple sclerosis of long disease duration
Authors: Kearney H , Rocca MA , Valsasina P , Balk L , Sastre-Garriga J , Reinhardt J , Ruggieri S , Rovira A , Stippich C , Kappos L , Sprenger T , Tortorella P , Rovaris M , Gasperini C , Montalban X , Geurts JJG , Polman CH , Barkhof F , Filippi M , Altmann DR , Ciccarelli O , Miller DH , Chard DT
Published: June 2013

Background:

Understanding long-term disability in multiple sclerosis (MS) is a key goal of research; it is relevant to how we monitor and treat the disease.

Objectives:

The Magnetic Imaging in MS (MAGNIMS) collaborative group sought to determine the relationship of brain lesion load, and brain and spinal cord atrophy, with physical disability in patients with long-established MS.

Methods:

Patients had a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of their brain and spinal cord, from which we determined brain grey (GMF) and white matter (WMF) fractional volumes, upper cervical spinal cord cross-sectional area (UCCA) and brain T2-lesion volume (T2LV). We assessed patient disability using the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS). We analysed associations between EDSS and MRI measures, using two regression models (dividing cohort by EDSS into two and four sub-groups).

Results:

In the binary model, UCCA ( p < 0.01) and T2LV ( p = 0.02) were independently associated with the requirement of a walking aid. In the four-category model UCCA ( p < 0.01), T2LV ( p = 0.02) and GMF ( p = 0.04) were independently associated with disability.

Conclusions:

Long-term physical disability was independently linked with atrophy of the spinal cord and brain T2 lesion load, and less consistently, with brain grey matter atrophy. Combinations of spinal cord and brain MRI measures may be required to capture clinically-relevant information in people with MS of long disease duration.
Fuel property and fuel temperature effects on internal nozzle flow, atomization and cyclic spray fluctuations of a direct injection spark ignition–injector
Authors: Zigan Lars , Shi Jun-Mei , Krotow Ivan , Schmitz Ingo , Wensing Michael , Leipertz Alfred
Published: June 2013

The effect of fuel properties and fuel temperature on the behaviour of the internal nozzle flow, atomization and cyclic spray fluctuations is examined for a three-hole direct injection spark ignition injector by combining numerical simulation of the nozzle flow with macroscopic and microscopic spray visualization techniques. A dominant influence of the liquid fuel viscosity on the highly unsteady, cavitating nozzle flow and spray formation was observed. A reduced viscosity (or larger Reynolds number) increases the flow velocity, turbulence and cavitation in the nozzle and leads to a slim spray with a reduced width but increased spray penetration. Furthermore, the spray cone angle is larger for lower Reynolds numbers due to the changed internal nozzle flow profile as predicted by the numerical calculation. The shot-to-shot fluctuations of the sprays were found to have their origin in the highly unsteady, cavitating nozzle flow. Larger cyclic spray fluctuations were observed at low Reynolds numbers although the predicted vapour formation in the nozzle is weaker. This can be explained by flow instabilities at low Reynolds numbers leading to large fluctuations in the nozzle flow.
Optimizing knock thresholds for improved knock control
Authors: Peyton Jones James C , Spelina Jill M , Frey Jesse
Published: June 2013

A new method for optimizing the knock threshold is presented and shown to significantly improve the closed loop performance of a standard knock controller. Traditional approaches assume that in order to control potentially damaging knock events, it is necessary to use thresholds set to detect such events. The proposed new method takes a more stochastic view and sets the threshold such that it maximizes the sensitivity to changes in the knock intensity distribution. The behavior of a standard knock controller in response to different threshold and gain values is investigated and illustrated using experimental and simulation data. In particular, it is shown that optimizing the threshold and controller parameters in the manner proposed results in a controller with fast transient response, improved mean spark advance, and reduced cyclic dispersion. With no modifications other than optimizing the parameters of a standard controller, it is therefore possible to operate closer to the knock limit, thereby improving fuel efficiency, emissions, and output torque.
An accelerated multi-zone model for engine cycle simulation of homogeneous charge compression ignition combustion
Authors: Kodavasal Janardhan , McNenly Matthew J , Babajimopoulos Aristotelis , Aceves Salvador M , Assanis Dennis N , Havstad Mark A , Flowers Daniel L
Published: June 2013

We have developed an accelerated multi-zone model for engine cycle simulation (AMECS) of homogeneous charge compression ignition (HCCI) combustion. This model incorporates chemical kinetics and is intended for use in system-level simulation software. A novel methodology to capture thermal stratification in the multi-zone model is proposed. The methodology calculates thermal stratification inside the cylinder based on a single computational fluid dynamics (CFD) calculation for motored conditions. CFD results are used for tuning zone heat loss multipliers that characterize wall heat loss from each individual engine zone based on the assumption that these heat loss multipliers can then be used at operating conditions different from those used in the single CFD run because the functional form of thermal stratification is more dependent on engine geometry than on operating conditions. The model is benchmarked against detailed CFD calculations and fully coupled HCCI CFD chemical kinetics calculations. The results indicate that the heat loss multiplier approach accurately predicts thermal stratification during the compression stroke and (therefore) HCCI combustion. The AMECS model with the thermal stratification methodology and reduced gasoline chemical kinetics shows good agreement with boosted gasoline HCCI experiments over a range of operating conditions, in terms of in-cylinder pressure and heat release rate predictions. The computational advantage of this method derives from the need for only a single motoring CFD run for a given engine, which makes the method very well suited for rapid HCCI calculations in system-level codes such as GT-Power, where it is often desirable to evaluate consecutive engine cycles.
Concern level assessment: Building domain knowledge into a visual system to support network-security situation awareness
Authors: Kodagoda Neesha , Attfield Simon , Choudhury Tinni , Rooney Chris , Mapp Glenford , Nguyen Phong H , Slabbert Louis , Wong B L William , Aiash Mahdi , Zheng Yongjun , Xu Kai , Lasebae Aboubaker
Published: June 2013

Information officers and network administrators require tools to help them achieve situation awareness about potential network threats. We describe a response to mini-challenge 1 of the 2012 IEEE Visual Analytics Science and Technology challenge in which we developed a visual analytic solution to a network-security situation awareness problem. To support conceptual design, we conducted a series of knowledge elicitation sessions with domain experts. These provided an understanding of the information they needed to make situation awareness judgements as well as a characterisation of those judgements in the form of production rules, which define a parameter we called the ‘concern level assessment’. The concern level assessment was used to provide heuristic guidance within a visual analytic system called Middlesex Spatial Interactive Visualisation Environment. An analysis of Visual Analytics Science and Technology challenge assessment sessions using Middlesex Spatial Interactive Visualisation Environment provides some evidence that intelligent heuristics like these can provide useful guidance without unduly dominating interaction and understanding.
Effect of IL-10 on LOX-1 expression, signalling and functional activity: An atheroprotective response
Authors: Arjuman Albina , Chandra Nimai C
Published: June 2013

The lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) has gained attention for its pro-inflammatory potential in atherogenesis. This study evaluates LOX-1 receptor modulation in the presence of an atheroprotective cytokine, interleukin-10 (IL-10). Both oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and IL-10 stimulated LOX-1 cell surface expression on THP-1 macrophages. However, our study demonstrates differential roles of oxLDL and IL-10 on LOX-1 functionality. Seemingly, oxLDL-induced LOX-1 promoted pro-inflammatory signalling by increasing intracellular NO, a substrate for pro-inflammatory peroxynitrite. In contrast, IL-10-induced LOX-1 facilitated scavenging of extracellular oxLDL without any effect on pro-inflammatory signalling. The atheroprotective effects of IL-10 were demonstrated by both facilitation of cellular oxLDL uptake and expression of LOXIN, an atheroprotective haplotype of the LOX-1 gene. Thus, increased expression of IL-10 may help to attenuate the risk of atherosclerosis developed by pro-inflammatory signal(s) generated through the interaction of oxLDL with its cognate receptor LOX-1 on macrophages.
Associations of serum fetuin-A levels with insulin resistance and vascular complications in patients with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Jung Chan-Hee , Kim Bo-Yeon , Kim Chul-Hee , Kang Sung-Koo , Jung Sang-Hee , Mok Ji-Oh
Published: June 2013

Objective:

We examined the relationship between serum fetuin-A, insulin resistance (IR), metabolic syndrome (MS) and vascular complications including cardiac autonomic neuropathy (CAN) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Methods:

A total of 172 T2DM patients were recruited and evaluated for diabetic microangiopathies (nephropathy, retinopathy and peripheral neuropathy) including CAN. Serum fetuin-A levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and the IR was assessed by the index of homeostasis model [homeostasis model assessment–insulin resistance (HOMA-IR)]. Atherosclerotic burden was assessed by ankle-brachial index (ABI) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV).

Results:

Serum fetuin-A levels showed significant positive correlations with HOMA-IR (r = 0.196, p = 0.022), and the mean levels of HOMA-IR were significantly increased progressively across fetuin-A tertiles ( p for trend = 0.044). Serum fetuin-A showed significant positive correlations with baPWV, systolic blood pressure (BP), total cholesterol, triglycerides, serum fasting c-peptide and negative correlations with ABI. Serum fetuin-A levels were also negatively correlated with serum adiponectin and positively correlated with serum tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α). The mean levels of serum fetuin-A were not significantly different according to the presence of each microangiopathies including CAN. Also, the mean levels of serum fetuin-A were not different between patients with MS and without MS.

Conclusions:

This present study showed that levels of serum fetuin-A are significantly associated with IR and arterial stiffness assessed by baPWV, while there are no associations with each microangiopathies in patients with T2DM.
Lock! Risk-Free Arbitrage in the Japanese Racetrack Betting Market
Authors: Ashiya Masahiro
Published: June 2013

This article finds that arbitrage was possible in 2 of the 175 Japanese thoroughbred races even after taking account of (a) the size of the minimum betting unit and (b) the negative effect of arbitrage on the odds. The guaranteed profits in these two races were 5,120 yen (about US$64) and 340 yen.
Vascular Risk Factors
Authors: de la Torre Jack C.
Published: June 2013

Evidence is growing that vascular risk factors (VRFs) for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) affect cerebral hemodynamics to launch a cascade of cellular and molecular changes that initiate cognitive deficits and eventual progression of AD. Neuroimaging studies have reported VRFs for AD to be accurate predictors of cognitive decline and dementia. In regions that participate in higher cognitive function, middle temporal, posterior cingulate, inferior parietal and precuneus regions, and neuroimaging studies indicate an association involving VRFs, cerebral hypoperfusion, and cognitive decline in elderly individuals who develop AD. The VRF can be present in cognitively intact individuals for decades before mild cognitive deficits or neuropathological signs are manifested. In that sense, they may be “ticking time bombs” before cognitive function is demolished. Preventive intervention of modifiable VRF may delay or block progression of AD. Intervention could target cerebral blood flow (CBF), since most VRFs act to lower CBF in aging individuals by promoting cerebrovascular dysfunction.