bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Covering Linear Programming with Violations
Authors: Qiu Feng , Ahmed Shabbir , Dey Santanu S. , Wolsey Laurence A.
Published: April 2014

We consider a class of linear programs involving a set of covering constraints of which at most k are allowed to be violated. We show that this covering linear program with violation is strongly 𝒩𝒫-hard. To improve the performance of mixed-integer programming-based schemes for these problems, we introduce and analyze a coefficient strengthening scheme, adapt and analyze an existing cutting plane technique, and present a branching technique. Through computational experiments, we empirically verify that these techniques are significantly effective in improving solution times over the CPLEX mixed-integer programming solver. In particular, we observe that the proposed schemes can cut down solution times from as much as six days to under four hours.
Characterization of curcumin-nicotine interaction in cetyltrimethyammonium bromide micelle
Authors: Iwunze Maurice O.
Published: April 2014

A combination of fluorescence and UV-Vis spectrophotometric techniques were used to characterize theÂ interaction of curcumin and nicotine in a cetyltrimethylammonium bromide (CTAB) micellar system. It is observedÂ that in this medium curcumin and nicotine interact in a 1:1 ratio using the UV-Visible molar ration method. TheÂ fluorescence spectrophotometric technique, using the Benesi-Hildebrand equation was used to determine theÂ association constant, Ka. The value thus obtained is 1.26 Â± 0.02 x 105 M-1 and the molar absorptivity, Îµ, of 2.3 Â±0.06Â x 104/M-cm. The free energy of association, â–³Ga, was subsequently calculated as -29.1 kJ/mol. This vale togetherÂ with the value obtained for Ka implies that the complex formed by curcumin and nicotine in this medium is not onlyÂ spontaneous but it also very stable.
Rolling back to roll forward: depoliticisation and the extension of government
Authors: Foster Emma Ann , Kerr Peter , Byrne Christopher
Published: April 2014

Premised on the assumption that depoliticisation is a crucial aspect of neo-liberal governmentality, this paper attempts to synergise these two, previously disparate, concepts. Borrowing from Foucault’s theorisation of governmentality and drawing from inclusive definitions of politics/ the political, this paper argues for a reformulation of our understanding of depoliticisation and politicisation. The paper contends that depoliticisation is best understood as a technique of governing which works to legitimise neo-liberalism as the dominant political rationality. As such, we argue that depoliticisation acts as a tool for masking the ‘rolling forward’ of the state and the proliferation of new forms of neo-liberal governmentality.
Politicising UK energy: what ‘speaking energy security’ can do
Authors: Kuzemko Caroline
Published: April 2014

This article explores one set of conditions under which a policy area, energy, became politicised. It also explores the relationship between concepts of ‘speaking security’, which claim that the language of security is politically potent, and notions of (de-) politicisation. It argues that the framing of energy supply as a security issue influenced an opening up of UK energy, which had been subject to processes of depoliticisation since the late 1980s, to greater political interest and deliberation. Speaking security about energy had a high degree of cognitive authority and was instrumental in revealing a lack of policy-making capacity in energy.
Family Experience in a Regional Participant Contact Registry for Research on Intellectual Disability
Authors: Conners Frances A. , Phillips B. Allyson , Rhodes Jennifer D. , Hamilton James C.
Published: April 2014

Participant recruitment is one of the most significant challenges in research on intellectual disability (ID). One potential solution is to develop a participant contact registry, which allows the researcher to contact participants directly rather than recruiting through multiple schools or service agencies. The authors describe the development of one such registry and results of a survey of registry families. Results suggest that families joined the registry to help others, they hope research in the ID field improves the daily lives of individuals with ID and their families, and they find research participation to be a positive experience. However, logistic concerns can be an important barrier to their research participation, and they would like more information about the research study both before and after participating.
Family Caregivers of Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: Outcomes Associated With U.S. Services and Supports
Authors: Williamson Heather J. , Perkins Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2014

Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the U.S. predominantly live with their family caregivers. As care delivery and support systems vary widely globally, consideration of caregiver outcomes specifically in the U.S. context is needed. A systematic literature review was conducted to identify U.S. family caregiver outcomes and their association with existing services and supports for family caregivers of adults with IDD. Twenty-four articles were compiled using the PubMed, Web of Knowledge, PsychInfo, and CINAHL databases. Studies report economic, mental, and physical health outcomes from caregiving roles. The need for comprehensive caregiver assessment is discussed. Understanding and responding to the changing needs of family caregivers is vital to the U.S. disability service system to effectively prioritize formal resources and services.
Digital television policy in Ireland: From inception to analogue switch off
Authors: Murphy Kenneth
Published: April 2014

On 24 October 2012 the Republic of Ireland switched off its analogue spectrum marking a crucial juncture in its transition to a fully digital television system. After fourteen years of policy-making, the Irish state had met both its digital switchover and analogue switch off deadlines.
This article will trace the long trajectory of Ireland’s transition to digital television and evaluate the state’s policy performance in the much-changed context of digital media governance. Amongst the myriad policy goals that were incorporated under the rubric of digital television
policy (information society goals, network development goals, television policy goals) successive governments achieved some policy goals but not all. In Ireland the signal policy failure has been in relation to the late launch and compromised model of digital terrestrial television (DTT).
Whereas there are varied factors and contexts that have shaped Ireland’s digital transition the article will trace the part played by Ireland’s negotiation of EU governance in this area and Ireland’s own state structure and its implication for policy-making at critical points
in Irelands’ digital transition. The Irish state’s status as a competition state engendered a policy approach that frequently became wedged between the twin pressures of interest group manoeuvring and the EU’s evolving approach to governing state aid towards DTV.
Watching TV fiction in the age of digitization: A study into the viewing practices of engaged TV fiction viewers
Authors: Simons Nele
Published: April 2014

This study explores the viewing practices of engaged TV fiction viewers in Flanders and the reasons for these particular practices. Through qualitative research using TV diaries and in-depth interviews we discovered an array of different viewing practices for TV fiction, which are composed
out of three levels of time-shifting elements. Our study has shown that time-shifting happens at the level of technology (watching through live television, DVR, downloading or DVD), the level of the release date (original, Flemish or DVD), and at the level of the rhythm (watching one or multiple
episodes). The time-shifting elements come together on a continuum of different viewing styles through which viewers shift. From the analysis of the reasons for TV fiction viewing practices, two main reasons emerged: the aspect of control and the social context. We concluded that the aspect
of control could be assigned to the underlying motive of convenience and that watching TV fiction still is a shared experience.
High-efficiency video coding: A future for ultra-high definition television?
Authors: Nicholls Rob
Published: April 2014

he standard for high efficiency digital coding was agreed by the International Telecommunication Union in January 2013. This article reviews the technology issues that are associated with delivery of television services using spectrum. It then examines the consumer implications of the
new standard – the likely requirement for replacement equipment. The impacts on broadcasters and content providers are also considered in an environment where advertising share is diminishing and where consumers increasingly expect subscription video on demand (SVoD) models. The article
suggests that newer coding techniques are likely to result in ultra-high-definition television (UHDTV) services being available to consumers. However, there is a strong likelihood that these services will not be delivered using terrestrial or satellite broadcasting services and instead will
be delivered over broadband.
Infrastructure as a content issue and the convergence between television and broadband Internet: Insights from the British market
Authors: Michalis Maria
Published: April 2014

Most communication policy debates and academic research focus on either ‘in front of’ or ‘behind’ the screen developments. The article argues that this dichotomy between ‘content’ and ‘transmission’ is false and considers how developments ‘behind’ and ‘inside’ the screen influence ‘in front of’ the screen aspects and, in turn, the user experience. It examines the growing complexity of the value chain of video distribution in the Internet age, explains the often contradictory interests of participants, and refers to relevant developments in Britain. The article discusses how transmission issues shape access to content and audiences. Increasingly, responsibility for the transmission, exchange and termination of digital content traffic lies with private commercial players who favour technological solutions, market and business models that are premised on exclusion and commercial priorities, and which as a result threaten universal, equitable, easy and affordable access to content. The resulting exclusion is in contradiction to inclusive discourses regarding content. The article therefore on the one hand highlights the argument that the dichotomy between content and infrastructure is artificial and on the other it points to the societal significance of the need to consider the interdependence between transmission and content.
The forgotten other of digital TV – from maquila to landfill
Authors: Miller Toby
Published: April 2014

When we think of digital television we think of newness, both in terms of the relatively recent mass conversions from analogue sets that have taken place across much of the globe and an uncertain but potentially exciting future – Apple TV, Google glasses or nano clothing? And will the Internet swallow television, vice versa or none of the above? The next turn remains unclear. But fantasizing it allows us to revel in the cheeky, cheery technological determinism of cybertarians.
Computing support for advanced medical data analysis and imaging
Authors: Wiślicki Wojciech , Bednarski Tomasz , Białas Piotr , Czerwiński Eryk , Kapłon Łukasz , Kochanowski Andrzej , Korcyl Grzegorz , Kowal Jakub , Kowalski Paweł , Kozik Tomasz , Krzemień Wojciech , Molenda Marcin , Moskal Paweł , Niedźwiecki Szymon , Pałka Marek , Pawlik-Niedźwiecka Monika , Raczyński Lech , Rudy Zbigniew , Salabura Piotr , Gupta Sharma Neha , Silarski Michał , Słomski Artur , Smyrski Jerzy , Strzelecki Adam , Wieczorek Anna , Zieliński Marcin , Zoń Natalia
Published: April 2014

We discuss computing issues for data analysis and image reconstruction of positron emission tomography based on time-of-flight medical scanner or other medical scanning devices producing large volumes of data. Service architecture based on grid and cloud concepts for distributed processing is proposed and critically discussed.
On the dynamical and arithmetic degrees
of rational self-maps of algebraic varieties
Authors: Kawaguchi Shu , Silverman Joseph H.
Published: April 2014

Let

f
:
X
⤏
X

${f:X\dashrightarrow X}$

be a dominant rational map of a smooth
projective variety defined over a characteristic 0 global field K,
let δ
f
be the dynamical degree of f, and let

h
X

:
X

(

K
¯

)

→

[
1
,
∞
)

${h_X:X({\bar{K}})\rightarrow [1,\infty )}$

be a Weil height relative to an ample
divisor. We prove that for every

ϵ
>
0

${\epsilon >0}$

there is a height bound

h
X

∘

f
n

≪

(

δ
f

+
ϵ
)

n

h
X

,

$
h_X\circ f^n \ll (\delta _f+\epsilon )^n h_X,
$

valid for all points whose f-orbit is well-defined, where the
implied constant depends only on X, hX
, f, and ϵ. An
immediate corollary is a fundamental inequality

α
¯

f

(
P
)

≤

δ
f

${\overline{\alpha }_f(P)\le \delta _f}$

for the upper arithmetic degree. If further f is a morphism and D
is a divisor satisfying an algebraic equivalence

f
*

D
≡
β
D

${f^*D\equiv \beta D}$

for
some

β
>

δ
f

${\beta >\sqrt{\delta _f}}$

, we prove that the canonical height

h
^

f
,
D

=
lim

β

-
n

h
D

∘

f
n

$
{{\hat{h}}_{f,D}=\lim \beta ^{-n}h_D\circ f^n}
$

converges and satisfies

h
^

f
,
D

∘
f
=
β

h
^

f
,
D

${{\hat{h}}_{f,D}\circ f=\beta {\hat{h}}_{f,D}}$

and

h
^

f
,
D

=

h
D

+
O

(

h
X

)

${{\hat{h}}_{f,D}=h_D+O(\sqrt{h_X})}$

. We also prove that the
arithmetic degree

α
f

(
P
)

${\alpha _f(P)}$

, if it exists, gives the main term in the
height counting function for the f-orbit of P. We conjecture that

α
¯

f

(
P
)

=

δ
f

${\overline{\alpha }_f(P)=\delta _f}$

whenever the f-orbit of P is Zariski dense and
describe some cases for which we can prove our conjecture.
Engineering light-matter interaction for emerging optical manipulation applications
Authors: Qiu Cheng-Wei , Palima Darwin , Novitsky Andrey , Gao Dongliang , Ding Weiqiang , Zhukovsky Sergei V. , Gluckstad Jesper
Published: April 2014

In this review, we explore recent trends in optical micromanipulation by engineering light-matter interaction and controlling the mechanical effects of optical fields. One central theme is exploring the rich phenomena beyond the now established precision measurements based on trapping micro beads with tightly focused beams. Novel synthesized beams, exploiting the linear and angular momentum of light, open new possibilities in optical trapping and micromanipulation. Similarly, novel structures are promising to enable new optical micromanipulation modalities. Moreover, an overview of the amazing features of the optics of tractor beams and backward-directed energy fluxes will be presented. Recently the so-called effect of negative propagation of the beams (existence of the backward energy fluxes) has been confirmed for X-waves and Airy beams. In the review, we will also discuss the negative pulling force of structured beams and negative energy fluxes in the vicinity of fibers. The effect is achieved due to the interaction of multipoles or, in another interpretation, the momentum conservation. Both backward-directed Poynting vector and backward optical forces are counter-intuitive and give an insight into new physics and technologies. Exploiting the degrees of freedom in synthesizing novel beams and designed microstructures offer attractive prospects for emerging optical manipulation applications.
Damage behavior of potting materials in sandwich composites with pinned joints
Authors: Atas Cesim , Basmaci Alper
Published: April 2014

The damage behavior of the potting materials around a pinhole, being used in the mechanical joints of sandwich composites, is investigated experimentally. The sandwich composite panels used in the tests were manufactured by the vacuum-assisted resin infusion technique. Each of the top and bottom face sheets of the panels consisted of two woven E-glass/epoxy layers. As the core material, PVC foam (AIREX® C70.55) was used. The potting material consists of an epoxy resin and hardener system mixed with short E-glass fibers (4 wt%). The diameter of the potting material
D
and the edge distance to the center of pinhole
E
were considered as the two main varied dimensions. They were chosen as
D=10, 12, 15, and 18 mm and
E=15, 20, and 25 mm. The damage mechanisms of the potting material and sandwich sections are presented by using load-displacement variations and images of the damaged samples, subjected to in-plane pin loading.
Modular Peptide-Based Hybrid Nanoprobes for Bio-Imaging and Bio-Sensing
Authors: Karaca Banu Taktak , Meyer James , VanOosten Sarah , Richter Mark , Tamerler Candan
Published: April 2014

The self-organization of functional proteins directly onto solid materials is attractive to a wide range of biomaterials and systems that need to accommodate a biological recognition element. In such systems, inorganic binding peptides may be an essential component due to their high affinity and selective binding features onto different types of solid surfaces. This study demonstrates a peptide-enabled self-assembly technique for designing well-defined protein arrays over a metal surface. To illustrate this concept, we designed a fusion protein that simultaneously displays a red fluorescence protein (DsRed-monomer), which is highly selective for copper ions, and a gold binding peptide AuBP. The peptide tag, AuBP, self-directs the organization of DsRed-monomer protein onto a gold surface and forms arrays built upon an efficient control of the organic/inorganic interface at the molecular level. The peptide-assisted design offers a modular approach for fabrication of fluorescent-based protein arrays with copper ion sensing ability.
Low-Cost, Experimental Curriculum in Materials Science Using Candy Glass Part 2: Home-Built Apparatuses
Authors: Heffner William R. , Jain Himanshu
Published: April 2014

We have been developing a collection of low-cost experiments for exploring the science of glassy materials through hands-on activities with sucrose based glass (a.k.a. hard candy). These form a mini-curriculum of glass science, consisting of inter-related experiments and home built apparatuses. It provides an environment to develop an understanding of glassy materials through active, prolonged engagement. Some of our earlier experiments were reported four years ago[1]. Since that report we have made substantial improvements and added new topics, including electrical and thermal conductivity, an improved DTA apparatus, and improved methodology for crystallization kinetics. All of our experiments are designed to be low-cost (typically <$100) and the apparatuses are designed for construction by students or teachers.
Spanish variable direct object marking
Authors: Balasch Sonia
Published: April 2014

In studying the social conditioning of Differential Object Marking (DOM) in Spanish we show a social dimension underlying the variable use of DOM: age of speakers has a moderate but significant effect, with middle-aged speakers showing an increase in overt marking. Previously, the implicit consensus was that there is no sociolectal variation in DOM. To ensure the statistical validity of our results, we developed an original, rigorous, quantitative approach to correct for the unbalanced distribution of the data across factor groups. A problem that has been frequently mentioned in the specialized literature, but never satisfactorily resolved for the linguistic analysis of corpus data.
Bevacizumab in Treatment of High-Risk Ovarian Cancer—A Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Chan John K. , Herzog Thomas J. , Hu Lilian , Monk Bradley J. , Kiet Tuyen , Blansit Kevin , Kapp Daniel S. , Yu Xinhua
Published: April 2014

Objective.

The objective of this study was to evaluate a cost-effectiveness strategy of bevacizumab in a subset of high-risk advanced ovarian cancer patients with survival benefit.

Methods.

A subset analysis of the International Collaboration on Ovarian Neoplasms 7 trial showed that additions of bevacizumab (B) and maintenance bevacizumab (mB) to paclitaxel (P) and carboplatin (C) improved the overall survival (OS) of high-risk advanced cancer patients. Actual and estimated costs of treatment were determined from Medicare payment. Incremental cost-effectiveness ratio per life-year saved was established.

Results.

The estimated cost of PC is $535 per cycle; PCB + mB (7.5 mg/kg) is $3,760 per cycle for the first 6 cycles and then $3,225 per cycle for 12 mB cycles. Of 465 high-risk stage IIIC (>1 cm residual) or stage IV patients, the previously reported OS after PC was 28.8 months versus 36.6 months in those who underwent PCB + mB. With an estimated 8-month improvement in OS, the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio of B was $167,771 per life-year saved.

Conclusion.

In this clinically relevant subset of women with high-risk advanced ovarian cancer with overall survival benefit after bevacizumab, our economic model suggests that the incremental cost of bevacizumab was approximately $170,000.
MSE wall geogrid tensile strength at high temperature sites
Authors: Kasozi Andrew M. , Siddharthan Raj V. , Mahamud Rajib
Published: April 2014

The Nevada Department of Transportation is currently considering to use geosynthetic reinforcements for mechanically stabilised earth walls in Nevada. Geosynthetic reinforcement avoids corrosion and is often cheaper and easier to install during construction. However, specific to conditions in southern Nevada, geosynthetic materials may have other potential degradation issues, for example, uncertainty of long-term field performance at high temperatures. These temperatures may substantially degrade the tensile strength and creep of geosynthetic materials because their mechanical behaviour is temperature sensitive. This study focused on the tensile strength degradation of geogrid reinforcement, in which a simple scheme is proposed to obtain a more realistic strength reduction factor for design, that is, RF D, at high-temperature sites. The scheme combines the effects of the following important design factors: site-specific air temperature history, numerical thermal modelling to establish soil backfill temperatures and laboratory testing at high temperatures. It addresses the effects of both long-term exposure to high temperatures and load level on the design strength of geogrids. The proposed approach has been illustrated using temperature data for Las Vegas, NV, and is easily adaptable to any location and geosynthetic reinforcement.
Evaluation of a logarithmic-law strength rate parameter using full-flow penetrometers
Authors: Klar Assaf , Pinkert Shmulik , DeJong Jason T.
Published: April 2014

The relation between the strength law rate parameter and the observed rate effect from full-flow penetrometer soundings performed at different penetration velocities is discussed and examined herein through an analytical investigation. It is shown, using numerical results of steady-state (continuous) penetrations, that the shear strength and global penetration resistance follow a similar law in which the shear strength and penetration resistance increase linearly with the logarithm of shear strain and penetration velocity, respectively. However, the strain rate parameter that is associated with the in situ penetration is found to be different from the conventional laboratory-based strain rate factor when considering the logarithmic relation between strength and rate. Consequently, previous suggestions to estimate the laboratory-based strength rate parameter as equal to the in situ rate parameter can only be considered a first-order approximation. Analytical examination of the energy terms involved in the plasticity solution, under the relaxing assumption of a constant plastic flow field, has led to the development of a simplified expression that resulted in an in-situ-based rate parameter of µ/(1 + 5µ) (where µ is the conventional laboratory-based strength rate parameter). Comparison of the numerically derived values with the simplified analytical expression shows good agreement, suggesting that this relation may help establish the soil rate strength parameter from full-flow penetration tests.
Psychometric evaluation of the Serbian dictionary for automatic text analysis - LIWCser
Authors: Bjekic Jovana , Lazarevic Ljiljana , Zivanovic Marko , Knezevic Goran
Published: April 2014

LIWC (Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count) is widely used word-level content
analysis software. It was used in large number of studies in the fields of
clinical, social and personality psychology, and it is adapted for text
analysis in 11 world languages. The aim of this research was to validate
empirically newly constructed adaptation of LIWC software for Serbian
language (LIWCser). The sample of the texts consisted of 384 texts in Serbian
and 141 texts in English. It included scientific paper abstracts, newspaper
articles, movie subtitles, short stories and essays. Comparative analysis of
Serbian and English version of the software demonstrated acceptable level of
equivalence (ICCM=.70). Average coverage of the texts with LIWCser dictionary
was 69.93%, and variability of this measure in different types of texts is in
line with expected. Adaptation of LIWC software for Serbian opens entirely
new possibilities of assessment of spontaneous verbal behaviour that is
highly relevant for different fields of psychology.
Attachment and posttraumatic symptomatology following physical injury accidents
Authors: Juen Florian , Rattensberger Verena , Buchheim Anna
Published: April 2014

This study investigates the association between attachment and posttraumatic
symptoms in adults immediately after a physical injury accident (assessed
after 1 week and 3 months). We expect to find higher percentage of attachment
dysregulation and higher symptomatic response (BSI and PDS) of disorganized
individuals. We introduce Personal Experience as a representational marker
for high attachment anxiety and preoccupation with one?s own distress that
blurs and potentially dissolves the capacity to maintain selfother boundaries
under stress. 65 patients were administered the Adult attachment Projective
Picture System. Results show that attachment disorganization appears more
frequent than in healthy individuals and is related to stronger
symptomatology. Personal Experience showed good prediction for symptoms after
3 months. This could be important to identify individuals in need for crisis
intervention support.
Metabolic Crosstalk: Molecular Links Between Glycogen and Lipid Metabolism in Obesity
Authors: Lu Binbin , Bridges Dave , Yang Yemen , Fisher Kaleigh , Cheng Alan , Chang Louise , Meng Zhuo-Xian , Lin Jiandie D. , Downes Michael , Yu Ruth T. , Liddle Christopher , Evans Ronald M. , Saltiel Alan R.
Published: April 2014

Glycogen and lipids are major storage forms of energy that are tightly regulated by hormones and metabolic signals. We demonstrate that feeding mice a high-fat diet (HFD) increases hepatic glycogen due to increased expression of the glycogenic scaffolding protein PTG/R5. PTG promoter activity was increased and glycogen levels were augmented in mice and cells after activation of the mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) and its downstream target SREBP1. Deletion of the PTG gene in mice prevented HFD-induced hepatic glycogen accumulation. Of note, PTG deletion also blocked hepatic steatosis in HFD-fed mice and reduced the expression of numerous lipogenic genes. Additionally, PTG deletion reduced fasting glucose and insulin levels in obese mice while improving insulin sensitivity, a result of reduced hepatic glucose output. This metabolic crosstalk was due to decreased mTORC1 and SREBP activity in PTG knockout mice or knockdown cells, suggesting a positive feedback loop in which once accumulated, glycogen stimulates the mTORC1/SREBP1 pathway to shift energy storage to lipogenesis. Together, these data reveal a previously unappreciated broad role for glycogen in the control of energy homeostasis.
Pleiotropic Effects of Lipid Genes on Plasma Glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR Levels
Authors: Li Naishi , van der Sijde Marijke R. ,   LifeLines Cohort Study Group, Bakker Stephan J.L. , Dullaart Robin P.F. , van der Harst Pim , Gansevoort Ron T. , Elbers Clara C. , Wijmenga Cisca , Snieder Harold , Hofker Marten H. , Fu Jingyuan
Published: April 2014

Dyslipidemia is strongly associated with raised plasma glucose levels and insulin resistance (IR), and genome-wide association studies have identified 95 loci that explain a substantial proportion of the variance in blood lipids. However, the loci’s effects on glucose-related traits are largely unknown. We have studied these lipid loci and tested their association collectively and individually with fasting plasma glucose (FPG), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and IR in two independent cohorts: 10,995 subjects from LifeLines Cohort Study and 2,438 subjects from Prevention of Renal and Vascular Endstage Disease (PREVEND) study. In contrast to the positive relationship between dyslipidemia and glucose traits, the genetic predisposition to dyslipidemia showed a pleiotropic lowering effect on glucose traits. Specifically, the genetic risk score related to higher triglyceride level was correlated with lower levels of FPG (P = 9.6 × 10−10 and P = 0.03 in LifeLines and PREVEND, respectively), HbA1c (P = 4.2 × 10−7 in LifeLines), and HOMA of estimated IR (P = 6.2 × 10−4 in PREVEND), after adjusting for blood lipid levels. At the single nucleotide polymorphism level, 15 lipid loci showed a pleiotropic association with glucose traits (P < 0.01), of which eight (CETP, MLXIPL, PLTP, GCKR, APOB, APOE-C1-C2, CYP7A1, and TIMD4) had opposite allelic directions of effect on dyslipidemia and glucose levels. Our findings suggest a complex genetic regulation and metabolic interplay between lipids and glucose.
LADA and CARDS: A Prospective Study of Clinical Outcome in Established Adult-Onset Autoimmune Diabetes
Authors: Hawa Mohammed Iqbal , Buchan Ana Paula , Ola Thomas , Wun Chuan Chuan , DeMicco David A. , Bao Weihang , Betteridge D. John , Durrington Paul N. , Fuller John H. , Neil H. Andrew W. , Colhoun Helen , Leslie Richard David , Hitman Graham A.
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes-associated autoantibodies can be detected in adult-onset diabetes, even when initially non–insulin requiring, i.e., with latent autoimmune diabetes. We aimed to identify adult-onset autoimmune diabetes in patients with established “type 2 diabetes” participating in the Collaborative Atorvastatin Diabetes Study (CARDS) to characterize their phenotype and clinical outcome.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

We prospectively studied 2,425 European patients with presumed type 2 diabetes (mean age 62 years, diabetes duration 7.9 years) for outcomes at 3.9 years after randomization to either atorvastatin or placebo. Subjects were screened for autoantibodies to GAD (GADA), insulinoma-associated antigen-2 (IA-2A), and zinc-transporter 8 (ZnT8A).

RESULTS

A total of 173 patients (7.1%) had GADA, of whom 11 (0.5%) and 5 (0.2%) were also positive for IA-2A and ZnT8A, respectively. At baseline, 44% of GADA-positive patients were not on insulin. Fewer autoantibody-positive than autoantibody-negative patients had metabolic syndrome (64 vs. 80%), and more were on insulin (56 vs. 17%) (P < 0.0001 for each) without lower HbA1c (69 mmol/mol [8.5%] vs. 62 mmol/mol [7.8%]). The frequency of microvascular and macrovascular events was similar in both cohorts, independent of atorvastatin.

CONCLUSIONS

Adult-onset autoimmune diabetes was prevalent, even in patients with established diabetes presumed to have type 2 diabetes. After 11.8 years’ diabetes duration, nearly half the patients with autoimmune diabetes were not on insulin treatment and almost two-thirds had metabolic syndrome. The type of diabetes, whether autoimmune diabetes or type 2 diabetes, did not impact the risk of microvascular disease.
The Effects of a Mediterranean Diet on the Need for Diabetes Drugs and Remission of Newly Diagnosed Type 2 Diabetes: Follow-up of a Randomized Trial
Authors: Esposito Katherine , Maiorino Maria Ida , Petrizzo Michela , Bellastella Giuseppe , Giugliano Dario
Published: April 2014

OBJECTIVE

To assess the long-term effects of dietary interventions on glycemic control, need for diabetes medications, and remission of type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Originally, in a two-arm trial design, overweight, middle-aged men and women with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes were randomized to a low-carbohydrate Mediterranean diet (LCMD; n = 108) or a low-fat diet (n = 107). After 4 years, participants who were still free of diabetes medications were further followed up until the primary end point (need of a diabetic drug); remission of diabetes (partial or complete) and changes in weight, glycemic control, and cardiovascular risk factors were also evaluated.

RESULTS

The primary end point was reached in all participants after a total follow-up of 6.1 years in the low-fat group and 8.1 years in the LCMD group; median survival time was 2.8 years (95% CI 2.4–3.2) and 4.8 years (4.3–5.2), respectively. The unadjusted hazard ratio for the overall follow-up was 0.68 (0.50–0.89; P < 0.001). LCMD participants were more likely to experience any remission (partial or complete), with a prevalence of 14.7% (13.0–16.5%) during the first year and 5.0% (4.4–5.6%) during year 6 compared with 4.1% (3.1–5.0%) at year 1 and 0% at year 6 in the low-fat diet group.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with newly diagnosed type 2 diabetes, an LCMD resulted in a greater reduction of HbA1c levels, higher rate of diabetes remission, and delayed need for diabetes medication compared with a low-fat diet.
OPTIMAL MULTIOBJECTIVE DESIGN OF DIGITAL FILTERS USING TAGUCHI OPTIMIZATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: Ouadi Abderrahmane , Bentarzi Hamid , Recioui Abdelmadjid
Published: April 2014

The multiobjective design of digital filters using the powerful Taguchi optimization technique is considered in this paper. This relatively new optimization tool has been recently introduced to the field of engineering and is based on orthogonal arrays. It is characterized by its robustness, immunity to local optima trapping, relative fast convergence and ease of implementation. The objectives of filter design include matching some desired frequency response while having minimum linear phase; hence, reducing the time response. The results demonstrate that the proposed problem solving approach blended with the use of the Taguchi optimization technique produced filters that fulfill the desired characteristics and are of practical use.
EFFICIENCY OPTIMIZATION OF SLITTED–CORE INDUCTION MOTOR
Authors: Yetgin Asim Gökhan , Turan Mustafa
Published: April 2014

In this study, a 3kW squirrel cage induction motor having slits in stator and rotor teeth were examined. The slit depth and width in the 56 different slitted motor models were optimized with Finite Element Method Magnetics (FEMM) software by using Finite Elements Method (FEM). What value the depth and width of optimum slit should be was determined in order to obtain maximum motor efficiency in the new motor models created with the proposed slitted structure, and how the depth and width of slit could affect the performance of motor was demonstrated.
EGFR-expression in primary urinary bladder cancer and corresponding metastases and the relation to HER2-expression. On the possibility to target these receptors with radionuclides
Authors: Carlsson Jörgen , Wester Kenneth , De La Torre Manuel , Malmström Per-Uno , Gårdmark Truls
Published: April 2014

Background. There is limited effect of tyrosine kinase inhibitors or “naked” antibodies binding EGFR or HER2 for therapy of metastasized urinary bladder cancer and these methods are therefore not routinely used. Targeting radionuclides to the extracellular domain of the receptors is potentially a better possibility.

Methods. EGFR- and HER2-expression was analyzed for primary tumors and corresponding metastases from 72 patients using immunohistochemistry and the internationally recommended HercepTest. Intracellular mutations were not analyzed since only the receptors were considered as targets and intracellular abnormalities should have minor effect on radiation dose.

Results. EGFR was positive in 71% of the primary tumors and 69% of corresponding metastases. Local and distant metastases were EGFR-positive in 75% and 66% of the cases, respectively. The expression frequency of HER2 in related lesions was slightly higher (data from previous study). The EGFR-positive tumors expressed EGFR in metastases in 86% of the cases. The co-expression of EGFR and HER2 was 57% for tumors and 53% for metastases. Only 3% and 10% of the lesions were negative for both receptors in tumors and metastases, respectively. Thus, targeting these receptors with radionuclides might be applied for most patients.

Conclusions. At least one of the EGFR- or HER2-receptors was present in most cases and co-expressed in more than half the cases. It is therefore interesting to deliver radionuclides for whole-body receptor-analysis, dosimetry and therapy. This can hopefully compensate for resistance to other therapies and more patients can hopefully be treated with curative instead of palliative intention.
Molecularly targeting the PI3K-Akt-mTOR pathway can sensitize cancer cells to radiotherapy and chemotherapy
Authors: Wang Ziwen , Huang Yujung , Zhang Jiqiang
Published: April 2014

Radiotherapy and chemotherapeutic agents that damage DNA are the current major non-surgical means of treating cancer. However, many patients develop resistances to chemotherapy drugs in their later lives. The PI3K and Ras signaling pathways are deregulated in most cancers, so molecularly targeting PI3K-Akt or Ras-MAPK signaling sensitizes many cancer types to radiotherapy and chemotherapy, but the underlying molecular mechanisms have yet to be determined. During the multi-step processes of tumorigenesis, cancer cells gain the capability to disrupt the cell cycle checkpoint and increase the activity of CDK4/6 by disrupting the PI3K, Ras, p53, and Rb signaling circuits. Recent advances have demonstrated that PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling controls FANCD2 and ribonucleotide reductase (RNR). FANCD2 plays an important role in the resistance of cells to DNA damage agents and the activation of DNA damage checkpoints, while RNR is critical for the completion of DNA replication and repair in response to DNA damage and replication stress. Regulation of FANCD2 and RNR suggests that cancer cells depend on PI3K-Akt-mTOR signaling for survival in response to DNA damage, indicating that the PI3K-AktmTOR pathway promotes resistance to chemotherapy and radiotherapy by enhancing DNA damage repair.
Characteristics, Motivations, and Challenges of Women Entrepreneurs in Oman’s Al-Dhahira Region
Authors: Belwal Shweta , Belwal Rakesh , Saidi Fatema Al
Published: April 2014

To organize and manage an enterprise, especially a business, usually with considerable initiative and risk, women entrepreneurs need to undertake various challenges. This paper identifies and discusses the characteristics, motivations, and obstacles of women entrepreneurs in starting their own businesses, focusing on the Al-Dhahira region of Oman. Data were collected through a structured survey questionnaire. The study identified the major characteristics of women entrepreneurs that inspired them to start their businesses. An urge to balance the work and family life, a search for stable work, and an intention to take advantage of a discovered market niche were identified as main motivators. The major difficulties faced by these entrepreneurs were insufficient financial resources and access to external financing. The findings help explain regional imbalances in entrepreneurial activities locally and globally.
Transsexuality under Surveillance in Iran
Authors: Jafari Farrah
Published: April 2014

Recent scholarly research on the Iranian transsexual raises significant issues about the position of Islam toward members of the transsexual community and about the challenges facing sexual lifestyles that are aberrant to heteronormative behavior in Iran. In 1967, the exiled Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini published a fatwa declaring that there is no religious restriction on sex reassignment surgery for hermaphrodites. In 1985, he issued an appendage to this fatwa to include transsexuals suffering from gender dysphoria. This reissuance impelled the process that culminated in new state-sanctioned medico-legal procedures regarding transsexuality as it has shifted from a method of reconciling one’s gender dysphoria to a medical, legal, and religious policing of sexuality. This paper examines the evolution of Khomeini’s original fatwa to argue that the Iranian ulama are manipulating Khomeini’s fatwa and using it as a medicalization device to enforce sexually normative behavior and shape sexual desires through state-sanctioned and governmentally implemented surgery.
Hydrogen in Metals: A Systematic Overview
Authors: Pohl M.
Published: April 2014

Hydrogen can damage metallic components in very different ways. In liquid phase metallurgical processes such as casting and welding, as a result of the dramatic reduction in the solubility of gases on solidification, gas bubbles can form causing porosity which particularly in conjunction with Hydrogen induced cracking, form “fish-eyes“ acting as dangerous internal stress raisers. This type of cracking, without the presence of porosity, which is also known as “flaking“, can occur equally in thin steel wires only a few μm in diameter and in large 100 tonne steel forgings, in both cases significantly detrimentally affecting both the manufacturing and service behaviour of the component.

Apart from metallurgical sources, semi-finished and finished components can also absorb Hydrogen from galvanic processes and as a result of corrosion. In these cases the Hydrogen diffuses into regions of higher stress and strain causing cracking, often unexpectedly and after significant periods of time.
Long-term follow-up of unruptured intracranial aneurysms repaired in California
Authors: Gonda David D. , Khalessi Alexander A. , McCutcheon Brandon A. , Marcus Logan P. , Noorbakhsh Abraham , Chen Clark C. , Chang David C. , Carter Bob S.
Published: April 2014

Object

Using a database that enabled longitudinal follow-up, the authors assessed the long-term outcomes of unruptured cerebral aneurysms repaired by clipping or coiling.

Methods

An observational analysis of the California Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development (OSHPD) database, which follows patients longitudinally in time and through multiple hospitalizations, was performed for all patients initially treated for an unruptured cerebral aneurysm in the period from 1998 to 2005 and with follow-up data through 2009.

Results

Nine hundred forty-four cases (36.5%) were treated with endovascular coiling, 1565 cases (60.5%) were surgically clipped, and 76 cases were treated with both coiling and clipping. There was no significant difference in any demographic variable between the two treatment groups except for age (median: 55 years for the clipped group, 58 years for the coiled group, p < 0.001). Perioperative (30-day) mortality was 1.1% in patients with coiled aneurysms compared with 2.3% in those with clipped aneurysms (p = 0.048). The median follow-up was 7 years (range 4–12 years). At the last follow-up, 153 patients (16.2%) in the coiled group had died compared with 244 (15.6%) in the clipped group (p = 0.693). The adjusted hazard ratio for death at the long-term follow-up was 1.14 (95% CI 0.9–1.4, p = 0.282) for patients with endovascularly treated aneurysms. The incidence of intracranial hemorrhage was similar in the two treatment groups (5.9% clipped vs 4.8% coiled, p = 0.276). One hundred ninety-three patients (20.4%) with coiled aneurysms underwent additional hospitalizations for aneurysm repair procedures compared with only 136 patients (8.7%) with clipped aneurysms (p < 0.001). Cumulative hospital costs per patient for admissions involving aneurysm repair procedures were greater in the clipped group (median cost $98,260 vs $81,620, p < 0.001) through the follow-up.

Conclusions

For unruptured cerebral aneurysms, an observed perioperative survival advantage for endovascular coiling relative to that for surgical clipping was lost on long-term follow-up, according to data from an administrative database of patients who were not randomly allocated to treatment type. A cost advantage of endovascular treatment was maintained even though endovascularly treated patients were more likely to undergo subsequent hospitalizations for additional aneurysm repair procedures. Rates of aneurysm rupture following treatment were similar in the two groups.
Ependymoblastoma with cystic change in a child
Authors: Ding Daling , Zhao Ailing , Qiu Bo , Xing Deguang , Guan Gefei , Guo Zongze
Published: April 2014

Ependymoblastoma is a rare and devastating primitive neuroectodermal tumor with ependymal differentiation. This tumor occurs very early in life and shows rapid growth and a diffuse infiltration through the leptomeningeal space. This neoplasm is characterized by uniform neuroepithelial cells, multilayered ependymal rosettes, perivascular pseudorosettes, and numerous mitotic figures. In this article, the authors report on a 4-year-old girl who was diagnosed as having an ependymoblastoma with cystic change. After a series of laboratory and imaging examinations, the left frontal solid-cystic lesion was surgically excised. Histological examinations confirmed the diagnosis of ependymoblastoma. The patient's intracranial hypertension symptoms were alleviated, and postoperative chemotherapy was performed. At the 6-month follow-up visit, MRI demonstrated evidence of relapse, and the girl died of tumor recurrence 14 months after surgery.

Databases (PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Web of Science) were searched for relevant articles published from 1970 to 2012; 71 eligible cases of ependymoblastoma were obtained, and 42 provided complete clinical details. Prognosis of children with ependymoblastoma is poor, and data on clinical behavior and optimal treatment strategies are lacking, but sustained remissions have been achieved after multimodal treatment according to existing literature. In this report, the clinical and histopathological features and therapeutic options of this tumor are discussed in the light of the published data. Further studies, especially those examining multimodality therapy, are needed to improve survival of children with this rare malignant CNS tumor.
Fracture of the L-4 vertebral body after use of a stand-alone interbody fusion device in degenerative spondylolisthesis for anterior L3–4 fixation
Authors: Kwon Yoon-Kwang , Jang Ju-Hee , Lee Choon-Dae , Lee Sang-Ho
Published: April 2014

Many studies attest to the excellent results achieved using anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) for degenerative spondylolisthesis. The purpose of this report is to document a rare instance of L-4 vertebral body fracture following use of a stand-alone interbody fusion device for L3–4 ALIF. The patient, a 55-year-old man, had suffered intractable pain of the back, right buttock, and left leg for several weeks. Initial radiographs showed Grade I degenerative spondylolisthesis, with instability in the sagittal plane (upon 15° rotation) and stenosis of central and both lateral recesses at the L3–4 level. Anterior lumbar interbody fusion of the affected vertebrae was subsequently conducted using a stand-alone cage/plate system. Postoperatively, the severity of spondylolisthesis diminished, with resolution of symptoms. However, the patient returned 2 months later with both leg weakness and back pain. Plain radiographs and CT indicated device failure due to anterior fracture of the L-4 vertebral body, and the spondylolisthesis had recurred. At this point, bilateral facetectomies were performed, with reduction/fixation of L3–4 by pedicle screws. Again, degenerative spondylolisthesis improved postsurgically and symptoms eased, with eventual healing of the vertebral body fracture. This report documents a rare instance of L-4 vertebral body fracture following use of a stand-alone device for ALIF at L3–4, likely as a consequence of angular instability in degenerative spondylolisthesis. Under such conditions, additional pedicle screw fixation is advised.