bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early functional rehabilitation or cast immobilisation for the postoperative management of acute Achilles tendon rupture? A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: McCormack R , Bovard J
Published: August 2015

Objective

To determine which postoperative rehabilitation regime is superior following surgical repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture. The primary outcomes were patient safety and satisfaction.

Design

Intervention meta-analysis.

Data sources

The MEDLINE and CINAHL electronic databases were searched from their date of inception until June 2015 using keywords related to acute Achilles tendon rupture, surgical repair and rehabilitation. The electronic database search was supplemented with forward citation tracking using the Web of Science.

Eligibility criteria

Randomised controlled trials comparing clinical and/or patient-reported outcomes between patients receiving early functional postoperative ankle motion and weight bearing (bracing group), and traditional ankle immobilisation with a non-weight bearing rigid cast (cast group) were eligible for inclusion. Fourteen articles were identified as potentially eligible; 10 sufficient-quality randomised controlled trials involving 570 patients were included for meta-analysis.

Main results

A high proportion of patients were able to return to prior employment and sporting activity in both groups. Five of the six trials measuring the time interval showed a faster return to prior sporting level in the bracing group. Subjective patient outcomes were significantly better in the bracing group (for good and excellent results, p=0.01; OR, 3.13; 95% CI 1.30 to 7.53). There was no difference in major complications between the two groups (p=0.21; RD, −0.03; 95% CI −0.06 to 0.01). Dynamometry and anthropometry measurements favoured functional rehabilitation at 6–12 weeks postoperation; however, by 6 months postoperative, the differences were negligible.

Conclusions

Compared to traditional ankle immobilisation, with a non-weight bearing cast following surgical repair of acute Achilles tendon rupture, early dynamic functional rehabilitation is as safe with higher patient satisfaction.
Re-treatment of patients with chronic hepatitis C virus genotype 4 infection with pegylated interferon and ribavirin: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Bing , Nguyen Nghia H , Yee Brittany E , Yip Benjamin , Nguyen Mindie H
Published: August 2015

Background

An estimated 170 million people worldwide are infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV). HCV genotype 4 (HCV-4)—the most prevalent hepatitis C strain in the Middle East and Africa—is difficult to treat, with an estimated sustained virological response (SVR) of 53% when using pegylated interferon and ribavirin (P/R) in treatment-naïve patients with HCV-4 infection. In regions where access to direct-acting antivirals is limited, re-treatment of patients who failed therapy with another course of P/R may be an option if the success rate is acceptable.

Objectives

We aimed to determine the SVR from retreatment with P/R in treatment-experienced patients with HCV-4 infection.

Methods

We performed a meta-analysis using MEDLINE and EMBASE searches, and by reviewing article bibliographies and abstracts from recent Liver Society Meetings. Original studies featuring at least 10 adult, treatment-experienced patients with HCV-4 infection failing prior interferon-based therapy and receiving subsequent re-treatment with P/R were included.

Results

3 studies were included. Overall pooled SVR was 32.7%, or 41/126 patients. No significant heterogeneity existed among the studies. One study reported higher SVR of 50% in previous relapsers, compared with 23% in previous non-responders.

Conclusions

As expected, treatment-experienced patients achieved lower rate of SVR compared with previously reported SVR for treatment-naïve patients with HCV-4 infection. The abysmal rate of success from re-treatment with P/R supports the use of direct-acting antivirals whenever re-treatment is considered, even in resource-limited regions.
Do pneumonia readmissions flagged as potentially preventable by the 3M PPR software have more process of care problems? A cross-sectional observational study
Authors: Borzecki Ann M , Chen Qi , Restuccia Joseph , Mull Hillary J , Shwartz Michael , Gupta Kalpana , Hanchate Amresh , Strymish Judith , Rosen Amy
Published: August 2015

Background

In the USA, administrative data-based readmission rates such as the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services’ all-cause readmission measures are used for public reporting and hospital payment penalties. To improve this measure and identify better quality improvement targets, 3M developed the Potentially Preventable Readmissions (PPRs) measure. It matches clinically related index admission and readmission diagnoses that may indicate readmissions resulting from admission- or post-discharge-related quality problems.

Objective

To examine whether PPR software-flagged pneumonia readmissions are associated with poorer quality of care.

Methods

Using a retrospective observational study design and Veterans Health Administration (VA) data, we identified pneumonia discharges associated with 30-day readmissions, and then flagged cases as PPR–yes or PPR–no using the PPR software. To assess quality of care, we abstracted electronic medical records of 100 random readmissions using a tool containing explicit care processes organised into admission work-up, in-hospital evaluation/treatment, discharge readiness and post-discharge period. We derived quality scores, scaled to a maximum of 25 per section (maximum total score=100) and compared cases by total and section-specific mean scores using t tests and effect size (ES) to characterise the clinical significance of findings.

Results

Our abstraction sample was selected from 11 278 pneumonia readmissions (readmission rate=16.5%) during 1 October 2005–30 September 2010; 77% were flagged as PPR–yes. Contrary to expectations, total and section mean quality scores were slightly higher, although non-significantly, among PPR–yes (N=77) versus PPR–no (N=23) cases (respective total scores, 71.2±8.7 vs 65.8±11.5, p=0.14); differences demonstrated ES >0.30 overall and for admission work-up and post-discharge period sections.

Conclusions

Among VA pneumonia readmissions, PPR categorisation did not produce the expected quality of care findings. Either PPR–yes cases are not more preventable, or preventability assessment requires other data collection methods to capture poorly documented processes (eg, direct observation).
Correlation betweenDPYDgene variation andKRASwild type status in colorectal cancer
Authors: Kleist Britta , Kempa Marcel , Meurer Thuja , Poetsch Micaela
Published: August 2015

Aims

Failure and side effects of combined cytotoxic therapy are challenges in the treatment of metastatic colorectal cancer (CRC).DPYDgene variations can potentially predict toxicity to 5-fluorouracil (FU)-based therapy andKRAS-,NRAS-,BRAF-,PIK3CA-wild type status is a known prerequisite for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor therapy. This study was performed to search for a possible link between these therapeutic markers.

Methods

TheDPYDgene variations c.496A>G, c.1679T>G, c.2846A>T andKRAS/NRAS/BRAF/PIK3CAmutational status were determined in non-neoplastic, primary CRC and metastatic CRC tissue from 115 patients.

Results

The polymorphism c.496A>G was theDPYDgene variant with the highest detection rate (12.9%), occurred predominantly in females (86.7%, p=0.0044) and was exclusively seen inKRASwild type primary CRC (15/65 (23.1%) vs 0/51 (0%) inKRAS-mutated primary CRC, respectively, p=0.0001).

Conclusions

This genetic profile could define a patient group requiring alternative combined therapeutic approaches. Global testing of large patient cohorts is necessary to prove this concept.
High Ki67 expression is an independent good prognostic marker in colorectal cancer
Authors: Melling Nathaniel , Kowitz Charlotte Marie , Simon Ronald , Bokemeyer Carsten , Terracciano Luigi , Sauter Guido , Izbicki Jakob Robert , Marx Andreas Holger
Published: August 2015

Aims

To correlate Ki67 expression with outcome in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

Ki67 labelling index (Ki67LI) was analysed by immunohistochemistry on a tissue microarray containing 1800 CRCs. The results were compared with clinicopathological and molecular parameters.

Results

Ki67LI was considered low in 26.3%, moderate in 56.7% and high in 17.0% of 1653 interpretable CRCs. High Ki67 expression was associated with low tumour stage (p<0.0001) and nodal status (p=0.0315), but not with tumour grade (p=0.8639), histological tumour type (p=0.1542) or tumour localisation, and was an independent prognosticator of favourable survival (p=0.0121). High Ki67 expression was also significantly associated with high-level nuclear β-catenin and p53 expression (p<0.0001 and p=0.0095, respectively).

Conclusions

In summary, our data show that high Ki67 expression in CRCs is associated with good clinical outcome. Ki67, p53 and β-catenin overexpression seem to be linked to CRC, and indicate a cellular state of high proliferative activity. Finally, our findings strongly argue for a clinical utility of Ki67 immunostaining as an independent prognostic biomarker in CRC.
An immunohistochemical comparison of two TTF-1 monoclonal antibodies in atypical squamous lesions and sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung, and pleural malignant mesothelioma*
Authors: Klebe Sonja , Swalling Adam , Jonavicius Lisa , Henderson Douglas W
Published: August 2015

Immunohistochemical detection of thyroid transcription factor-1 (TTF-1) plays an important role in the diagnosis and subclassification of non-small cell carcinomas of the lung in biopsy and some cytology samples, specifically for identification of squamous cell carcinoma (classically negative) and non-mucinous adenocarcinoma (positive in most cases) and for discrimination between lung adenocarcinoma and pleural malignant mesothelioma (classically negative).

Aims and methods

We carried out a comparison of the widely used mouse monoclonal TTF-1 antibody based on the 8G7G3/1 clone versus the more recently introduced rabbit monoclonal antibody (MAb) based on the SP141 clone.

Results

Both antibodies labelled alveolar epithelium in normal lung parenchyma, but the SP141 antibody also labelled bronchial mucosal basal cells. All 13 cases of atypical squamous lesions (including one case of bronchial squamous dysplasia) were negative with the 8G7G3/1 antibody, but 6/13 cases of squamous carcinoma/dysplasia showed positive nuclear labelling with the SP141 antibody in the same tissue biopsy. All 35 cases of adenocarcinoma of the lung were positive with both antibodies. For 12 cases of sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung, two cases were labelled with the 8G7G3/1 antibody, whereas positive labelling of 4/12 cases was observed with SP141. All 66 cases of epithelioid malignant mesothelioma were negative with both antibodies, but 8/19 cases of sarcomatoid mesothelioma showed positive nuclear labelling with the SP141 antibody (0/19 with 8G7G3/1).

Conclusions

Our findings indicate differences in the rates of positive and negative labelling with these two antibodies, and suggest the potential for misclassification of a proportion of squamous carcinomas of the lung as adenocarcinoma, and for misdiagnosis of some sarcomatoid mesotheliomas as sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung. If the results of SP141 are assigned overriding significance, our findings further indicate that in isolation, neither negative labelling with either 8G7G3/1 or SP141 nor positive labelling with the SP141 MAb discriminates between sarcomatoid carcinoma and sarcomatoid mesothelioma, whereas positive labelling with the 8G7G3/1 MAb favours a diagnosis of sarcomatoid carcinoma. The literature suggests that these seemingly ‘aberrant’ results with the SP141 antibody are not ‘false’ positives, but rather real detection of low levels of TTF-1 protein in a broader range of tumours than is widely recognised.
β-Blockers are associated with a reduction in COPD exacerbations
Authors: Bhatt Surya P , Wells James M , Kinney Gregory L , Washko George R , Budoff Matthew , Kim Young-il , Bailey William C , Nath Hrudaya , Hokanson John E , Silverman Edwin K , Crapo James , Dransfield Mark T
Published: August 2015

Background

While some retrospective studies have suggested that β-blocker use in patients with COPD is associated with a reduction in the frequency of acute exacerbations and lower mortality, there is concern that their use in patients with severe COPD on home oxygen may be harmful.

Methods

Subjects with Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) stage 2–4 COPD participating in a prospective follow-up of the COPDGene cohort, a multicentre observational cohort of current and former smokers were recruited. Total and severe exacerbation rates were compared between groups categorised by β-blocker use on longitudinal follow-up using negative binomial regression analyses, after adjustment for demographics, airflow obstruction, %emphysema on CT, respiratory medications, presence of coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure and coronary artery calcification, and after adjustment for propensity to prescribe β-blockers.

Results

3464 subjects were included. During a median of 2.1 years of follow-up, β-blocker use was associated with a significantly lower rate of total (incidence risk ratio (IRR) 0.73, 95% CI 0.60 to 0.90; p=0.003) and severe exacerbations (IRR 0.67, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.93; p=0.016). In those with GOLD stage 3 and 4 and on home oxygen, use of β-blockers was again associated with a reduction in the rate of total (IRR 0.33, 95% CI 0.19 to 0.58; p<0.001) and severe exacerbations (IRR 0.35, 95% CI 0.16 to 0.76; p=0.008). Exacerbation reduction was greatest in GOLD stage B. There was no difference in all-cause mortality with β-blocker use.

Conclusions

β-Blockers are associated with a significant reduction in COPD exacerbations regardless of severity of airflow obstruction. The findings of this study should be tested in a randomised, placebo-controlled trial.

Trial registration number

(ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00608764).
An evaluation of the Kinect-Ed presentation, a motivating nutrition and cooking intervention for young adolescents in grades 6–8
Authors: Santarossa Sara , Ciccone Jillian , Woodruff Sarah J.
Published: August 2015

Recently, public health messaging has included having more family meals and involving young adolescents (YAs) with meal preparation to improve healthful diets and family dinner frequency (FDF). Kinect-Ed, a motivational nutrition education presentation was created to encourage YAs (grades 6–8) to help with meal preparation and ultimately improve FDF. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Kinect-Ed presentation, with the goals of the presentation being to improve self-efficacy for cooking (SE), food preparation techniques (TECH), food preparation frequency (PREP), family meal attitudes and behaviours, and ultimately increase FDF. A sample of YAs (n = 219) from Southern Ontario, Canada, completed pre- and postpresentation surveys, measuring FDF, PREP, SE, and TECH. Kinect-Ed successfully improved participants’ FDF (p < 0.01), PREP (p < 0.01), SE (p < 0.01), and TECH (<0.01). Overall, goals of the presentation were met. Encouraging YAs to help prepare meals and get involved in the kitchen may reduce the time needed from parents to prepare meals, and, in turn, allow more time for frequent family dinners.
Oxidative stress and damage to erythrocytes in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease — changes in ATPase and acetylcholinesterase activity
Authors: Bukowska Bożena , Sicińska Paulina , Pająk Aneta , Koceva-Chyla Aneta , Pietras Tadeusz , Pszczółkowska Anna , Górski Paweł , Koter-Michalak Maria
Published: August 2015

The study indicates, for the first time, the changes in both ATPase and AChE activities in the membrane of red blood cells of patients diagnosed with COPD. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is one of the most common and severe lung disorders. We examined the impact of COPD on redox balance and properties of the membrane of red blood cells. The study involved 30 patients with COPD and 18 healthy subjects. An increase in lipid peroxidation products and a decrease in the content of -SH groups in the membrane of red blood cells in patients with COPD were observed. Moreover, an increase in the activity of glutathione peroxidase and a decrease in superoxide dismutase, but not in catalase activity, were found as well. Significant changes in activities of erythrocyte membrane enzymes in COPD patients were also evident demonstrated by a considerably lowered ATPase activity and elevated AChE activity. Changes in the structure and function of red blood cells observed in COPD patients, together with changes in the activity of the key membrane enzymes (ATPases and AChE), can result from the imbalance of redox status of these cells due to extensive oxidative stress induced by COPD disease.
Continuous online determination of 226Ra in liquid effluents using automated column chromatography-ICP-MS
Authors: Evans R. Douglas , Izmer Andrei , Benkhedda Karima , Toms Andrew , Fernando Angelo , Wang Wei
Published: August 2015

A measurement system capable of continuous on-line matrix removal, pre-concentration and analysis of 226Ra using pre-packed columns coupled to a flow injection system and an ICP-MS was developed. Full instrumental control of both the ICP-MS and the flow injection system provided automatic integration of the transient signals. The flow injection system was programmed to control column conditioning, sample loading, column rinsing, analyte elution and column cleaning operations employing appropriate solutions. The application of this system to the 226Ra analysis of an industrial liquid effluent was demonstrated. Using this particular instrument together with pre-concentration and matrix removal procedures, a limit of detection of 5.4 fg L−1 (2 mBq L−1) and a method detection limit of 16.2 fg L−1 (6 mBq L−1) were achieved for the measurement of 226Ra using a 25 mL sample volume. Total time for sample handling and analysis is approximately 10 minutes. The concentration of 226Ra in a discharged effluent sample was 0.73 pg L−1 (27 mBq L−1), which is in good agreement with the value of 0.81 pg L−1 (30 mBq L−1) measured using conventional alpha counting techniques.
Neogene strontium isotope stratigraphy, foraminifer biostratigraphy, and lithostratigraphy from offshore wells, Queen Charlotte Basin, British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Johns Marjorie J. , Trotter Julie A. , Bonnett Clio J.M. , Barnes Christopher R.
Published: August 2015

Strontium isotope ages of foraminifers from Early Miocene to Late Pliocene (Neogene) sequences (21.2–3.4 Ma) are reported for the first time from the Queen Charlotte Basin (QCB) in Queen Charlotte Sound, offshore British Columbia. These ages, together with a revised foraminifer biostratigraphy and log data from two offshore wells, provide a high-resolution chronostratigraphy for the southern part of the QCB. The data show thick 1717–2636 m Miocene sequences overlain by much thinner Pliocene and younger units (<240 m). Assessments of foraminifer biofacies indicate common transported neritic and shelf faunas into slope or bathyal environments where changes in basin water depths indicate significant deformation and erosion. Additional stratigraphic information for six offshore wells in Hecate Strait show the common occurrence of amorphous carbonates in the upper sections of the penetrated basin successions. Amorphous carbonates and coals are less common in the Harlequin D-86 and Osprey D-36 wells of Queen Charlotte Sound. Coals are especially common to abundant in the sedimentary sections penetrated by the Hecate Strait wells and are potential sources of seep fluids and gases. The occurrences of glassy-textured coals, zeolite-like minerals, recrystallized foraminifers, and inverted stratigraphic units in the basal parts of Miocene sub-basins indicate heating, deformation or slumping, and upward mobilization of fluids or gases after the Early Miocene. Results support syn-rift and post-rift depositional and deformational phases. Comparisons between the different geological processes and events in the Queen Charlotte and Tofino basins reveal details of the complex evolution of these Cenozoic basins, plate margins, and ridge junctions.
Contaminant bioaccumulation dynamics in young-of-the-year bluefish subpopulations in New York Bight with a special reference to the condition and nursery area fidelity subsequent to recruitment
Authors: Deshpande Ashok D. , Dockum Bruce W. , Draxler Andrew F.J.
Published: August 2015

Contaminant bioaccumulation dynamics was examined in young-of-the-year (YOY) bluefish subpopulations (Pomatomus saltatrix) in the New York Bight ecosystem, and the results were used to assess (i) effects of habitat quality in terms of levels of PCBs and pesticides on bluefish condition and (ii) fidelity of YOY bluefish to different subestuaries that served as the nurseries subsequent to recruitment during their first summer. Total PCBs and p,p′-DDE body burdens increased with fish length, but concentrations generally increased only poorly to moderately, which suggested steady-state contaminant uptake commensurate with aggressive feeding and dilution related to rapid growth characteristic of YOY bluefish within a subestuary. High condition factors paired with elevated contamination levels in bluefish from the Lower Hudson River, as compared with bluefish from Newark Bay with poor condition factors paired with elevated contamination levels, suggested that PCBs and pesticides alone may not determine condition in these fish. We found dissimilar patterns of prominent PCB congeners in bluefish from adjacent subestuaries (e.g., Newark Bay and Lower Hudson River) suggesting separate contaminant sources. Total PCB normalized fingerprints of PCB congeners permitted statistical discrimination among YOY bluefish specimens from various estuaries with a potential to differentiate subpopulations on scales to less than 20 km. This unexpected fidelity to nursery estuaries may have implications for the management strategies.
A multiscale analysis of the effects of alternative silvicultural treatments on windthrow within balsam fir dominated stands
Authors: Anyomi Kenneth Agbesi , Ruel Jean-Claude
Published: August 2015

Boreal ecosystem functioning is largely controlled by disturbance dynamics. There have been efforts at adapting forest management approaches to emulate natural disturbance effects, as this is expected to maintain ecosystem resilience. In many instances, this involves resorting to partial cutting strategies that are likely to increase windthrow losses. The objective of this study was to determine the effects of alternative silvicultural practices on windthrow damage and how these effects vary with the scale of treatment. The study was conducted in the Quebec North Shore region (Canada), an area dominated by balsam fir (Abies balsamea (L.) Mill.) and accompanied by black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill) B.S.P.). Four different silvicultural treatments (overstory removal, heavy partial cutting, and two patterns of selection cutting) and control areas were implemented in 2004 and 2005. The experiment used a nested approach where treatment at the plot level was independent and yet nested within the block-level treatment. At the block level, treatments were applied over 10–20 ha units, leaving a small portion of the block for a smaller application of each treatment (plot scale, 2500 m2). Inventory was carried out before harvesting and monitoring was done yearly after harvesting, with the aim to better understand the plot- and block-level factors that drive windthrow damage levels and the effects of alternative silvicultural treatments. Results after 6–7 years show that basal area proportion windthrown differs substantially between treatments, as well as between treated sites and control sites. Windthrow levels were higher under heavy cuts relative to selection cuts and also increased with balsam fir proportion. Windthrow proportions were better correlated to block-level treatment than plot-level treatment, showing that the environment surrounding the treated plot can have an important effect on windthrow losses. Overall, the selection cutting system, particularly SC2, retains the most green-tree basal area and thus best meets the management objective of retaining old-growth attributes. A simple empirical model was calibrated that could aid in hazard rating.
Black holes in massive gravity: Quasinormal modes of Dirac field perturbations
Authors: Fernando Sharmanthie
Published: August 2015

We have studied quasinormal modes (QNMs) of spinor-[Formula: see text], massless Dirac field perturbations of a black hole in massive gravity. The parameters of the theory, such as the mass of the black hole, the scalar charge of the black hole, mode number and the multipole number are varied to observe how the corresponding quasinormal frequencies change. We have also used the Pöschl–Teller approximation to reach analytical values for the frequencies of quasinormal modes for comparison with the numerically obtained values. Comparisons are done with the frequencies of the Schwarzschild black hole.
Probability-Based Structural Health Monitoring Through Markov Chain Monte Carlo Sampling
Authors: Li P. J. , Xu D. W. , Zhang J.
Published: August 2015

The classical nonuniqueness problem exists due to uncertainty in the finite element (FE) calibration field. Namely, multiple models with different intrinsic parameters may all fit the observed data well, thus the selected single “best” model probably is not the truly best model to reflect the structural intrinsic property. A probability-based method using a population of FE models, not the single “best” method, is proposed to deal with the nonuniqueness problem. In this method, the Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) technique is first performed to sample the key structural parameters representing the main sources of uncertainty. Then a FE model population is generated using the samples, and the posterior probability of each model is evaluated by calculating the correlation between the simulation results and measurements through the Bayesian theorem. Finally, all the FE models from the stochastic sampling with their posterior probabilities are used for structural identification (St-Id) and performance evaluation. The advantage of the proposed method is that it not only identifies the magnitudes of structural parameters, but also generates their probability distributions for subsequent probability-based reliability analysis and risk evaluation. The feature provided by the stochastic sampling and statistical techniques makes the proposed method suitable for dealing with uncertainty. The example of the Phase I IASC-ASCE benchmark structure investigated demonstrates the effectiveness of the proposed method for probability-based structural health monitoring.
Public Policy Satisfaction in Urban China
Authors: TANG Wenfang , YU Dong Erico
Published: August 2015

Based on a public opinion survey in 10 major cities in 2013, this study analyses the relationships between satisfaction of public policy and various geographic, demographic and social factors. It shows that urban Chinese citizens are generally satisfied with national policies, and less satisfied with local and life-related policies. The Chinese government needs to focus on Chinese urban residents' political activism and establish better formal institutions to improve its governance and deal with social instability.
Mix of First- and Second-Generation Biofuels to Meet Multiple Environmental Objectives: Implications for Policy at a Watershed Scale
Authors: Housh Mashor , Khanna Madhu , Cai Ximing
Published: August 2015

Biofuel mandates are being widely used by countries to achieve multiple objectives of energy security and climate change mitigation. The Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) in the US specifies arbitrarily chosen volumetric targets for different types of biofuels in the US based on their greenhouse gas intensity only. Cellulosic biofuels from high yielding energy crops like miscanthus have the potential to co-generate multiple environmental impacts, including reducing nitrate runoff, being a sink for Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and providing a given volume of biofuel with less diversion of land from food crop production than corn ethanol, but at a significantly higher cost. This paper quantifies the tradeoffs between profitability, food and fuel production, GHG emissions and nitrate runoff reduction with different types of biofuels in the Sangamon watershed in Illinois and analyzes the optimal mix of biofuels as well as the policies that should supplement the mandate to achieve multiple environmental outcomes. We find that a two-thirds share of cellulosic biofuel in the mandated level could reduce nitrate run-off by 20% while reducing GHG emissions by 88–100% but would reduce profits by 15–27% depending on whether a GHG policy or a Nitrate policy is used relative to the case where the mandate is met by corn ethanol alone. Additionally, the ratio of corn stover to miscanthus used to produce cellulosic biofuels is higher under a GHG policy compared to a Nitrate policy that achieves the same level of nitrate reduction. Our results show that the optimal mix of different types of biofuels and the policy to induce it depend on the environmental objectives and the tradeoffs that society is willing to make between low cost energy security, food production and various environmental benefits.
Thermomechanical Behaviour of a PWB by Speckle Interferometry Technique
Authors: Trentadue Bartolomeo , Illuzzi Giuseppe
Published: August 2015

The speckle interferometry technique has been used in this work in order to determine the thermomechanical behaviour of Printed Wiring Board (PWB) (circuits) of a radio integrated with tape player and speakers. A preliminary experiment of such technique has been carried out on a single electronic component (silicon transistor), during the thermal transient and at the steady state. The thermal deformation and stresses on PWB have been obtained through related experimental analyses on both cases. The results showed a very good applicability of speckle technique on the irregular object surface as PWB.
Analysis of Hybrid Buffering and Retransmission in OBS Networks
Authors: Vanitha D. Veera , Sabrigiriraj M.
Published: August 2015

Burst contention is a major problem in the Optical Burst Switching (OBS) networks. Due to inadequate contention resolution techniques, the burst loss is prominent in OBS. In order to resolve contention fiber delay lines, wavelength converters, deflection routing, burst segmentation, and retransmission are used. Each one has its own limitations. In this paper, a new hybrid scheme is proposed which combines buffering and retransmission, which increases the mean number of bursts processed in the system. In this hybrid method, retransmission with controllable arrival and uncontrollable arrival is analyzed. Normally all the bursts reach the first hop and few of them go for second hop to reach destination. After all the bursts reach the destination the server may go for maintenance activity or wait for the arrival of next burst. We model it as a batch arrival single server retrial queue with buffer. Numerical results are analyzed to show the mean number of bursts processed in the system with uncontrollable arrival and controllable arrivals.
Plasmablastic Lymphoma: A Review of Current Knowledge and Future Directions
Authors: Elyamany Ghaleb , Al Mussaed Eman , Alzahrani Ali Matar
Published: August 2015

Plasmablastic lymphoma (PBL) is an aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL), which frequently arises in the oral cavity of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infected patients. PBL shows diffuse proliferation of large neoplastic cells resembling B-immunoblasts/plasmablasts, or with plasmacytic features and an immunophenotype of plasma cells. PBL remains a diagnostic challenge due to its peculiar morphology and an immunohistochemical profile similar to plasma cell myeloma (PCM). PBL is also a therapeutic challenge with a clinical course characterized by a high rate of relapse and death. There is no standard chemotherapy protocol for treatment of PBL. Cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) or CHOP-like regimens have been the backbone while more intensive regimens such as cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin, high-dose methotrexate/ifosfamide, etoposide, high-dose cytarabine (CODOX-M/IVAC), or dose-adjusted etoposide, prednisone, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, and doxorubicin (DA-EPOCH) are possible options. Recently, a few studies have reported the potential value of the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib and thalidomide in PBL patients. The introduction of genes encoding artificial receptors called chimeric antigen receptors (CARs) and CAR-modified T cells targeted to the B cell-specific CD19 antigen have demonstrated promising results in multiple early clinical trials. The aim of this paper is to review the recent advances in epidemiology; pathophysiology; clinical, pathologic, and molecular characteristics; therapy; and outcome in patients with PBL.
In Vivo Delivery ofTinospora cordifoliaRoot Extract Preventing Radiation-Induced Dystrophies in Mice Ovaries
Authors: Sharma Riddhi
Published: August 2015

Unconscious and unplanned radiation exposures are a severe threat to gonads particularly ovaries. The present study aims at finding radioprotective effect ofTinospora cordifolia(Willd.) Miers root extract (TCRE) in ovaries. Swiss albino mice were divided into four groups: Group 1 served as “normal” and is administered double distilled water and Group 2 is given TCRE with optimum dosage selected as 75 mg/mice. Group 3 serving the purpose of “irradiated control” were exposed to 2.5 Gy gamma radiation. Group 4 (experimental) were administered optimum dosage of TCRE with prior exposure to 2.5 Gy gamma radiation. Follicle cell counts were scored at autopsy intervals of 24 hrs, 3 days, 7 days, 15 days, and 30 days after gamma irradiation. To understand the mechanism of radioprotection, lipid peroxidation (LPO) and glutathione (GSH) levels were also measured in all groups. TCRE supplementation rendered significant protection to ovaries by restoring follicle counts; it also reduced LPO levels and increased GSH levels in ovaries. It implies that TCRE administration protects ovaries against radiation exposure.
Hiwi Promotes the Proliferation of Colorectal Cancer Cells via Upregulating Global DNA Methylation
Authors: Yang Lin , Bi Lei , Liu Qingwei , Zhao Meng , Cao Bin , Li Dong , Xiu Jianjun
Published: August 2015

Hiwi is well known for its role in stem cell renewal, maintaining the resting stage, and downregulating cell cycle of stem cells via RNA silencing. And Hiwi overexpression has been recognized in several types of cancers. In the present study, we examined the Hiwi expression in colorectal cancer (CRC) specimens in both mRNA and protein levels via real-time quantitative PCR, western blot assay, and immunohistochemical staining. Then we explored the role of Hiwi in the cancer cell proliferation and in the DNA methylation in human CRC Caro-2 and HT-29 cell lines. Results demonstrated that both mRNA and protein levels of Hiwi were significantly higher in 38 CRC tissues than in 38 peritumor tissues. Moreover, the Hiwi overexpression with an adenovirus vector significantly promoted the proliferation of Caro-2 and HT-29 cells, associated with significant increase in the global DNA methylation levels. And the chemical inhibition of DNA methylation significantly restrained such proliferation promotion. In summary, we confirmed that Hiwi was overexpressed in CRC tissues and that the forced Hiwi overexpression promoted the proliferation and global DNA methylation of CRC cell lines. Our results imply for the first time that Hiwi promotes the proliferation of CRC cells via promoting global DNA methylation.
In VitroIon Chelating, Antioxidative Mechanism of Extracts from Fruits and Barks ofTetrapleura tetrapteraand Their Protective Effects against Fenton Mediated Toxicity of Metal Ions on Liver Homogenates
Authors: Moukette Bruno Moukette , Pieme Anatole Constant , Biapa Prosper Cabral Nya , Njimou Jacques Romain , Stoller Marco , Bravi Marco , Yonkeu Ngogang Jeanne
Published: August 2015

The aim of the present study was to investigate the antioxidant activity and protective potential ofT. tetrapteraextracts against ion toxicity. The antioxidant activity of the extracts was investigated spectrophotometrically against several radicals (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS•), hydroxyl radical (HO•), and nitric oxide (NO•)), followed by the ferric reducing power, total phenols, flavonoid, and flavonol contents. The effects of the extracts on catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and peroxidase activities were also determined using the standard methods as well as the polyphenol profile using HPLC. The results showed that the hydroethanolic extract ofT. tetraptera(CFH) has the lowest IC50value with the DPPH, ABTS, OH, and NO radicals. The same extract also exhibited the significantly higher level of total phenols (37.24 ± 2.00 CAE/g dried extract); flavonoids (11.36 ± 1.88 QE/g dried extract); and flavonols contents (3.95 ± 0.39 QE/g dried extract). The HPLC profile ofT. tetrapterarevealed that eugenol (958.81 ± 00 mg/g DW), quercetin (353.78 ± 00 mg/g DW), and rutin (210.54 ± 00 mg/g DW) were higher in the fruit than the bark extracts. In conclusion, extracts fromT. tetrapteramay act as a protector against oxidative mediated ion toxicity.
The Frequency of Autoimmune Thyroid Disease in Alopecia Areata and Vitiligo Patients
Authors: Saylam Kurtipek Gulcan , Cihan Fatma Gökşin , Erayman Demirbaş Şule , Ataseven Arzu
Published: August 2015

Aim. Many studies demonstrated that alopecia areata (AA) and vitiligo are commonly associated with autoimmune thyroid diseases. We aimed to investigate the frequency of thyroid dysfunctions and autoimmunity related with vitiligo and AA.Material and Methods. 200 patients, 92 AA and 108 vitiligo diagnosed, were surveyed retrospectively. The control population was in reference range and from Konya, central Anatolian region of Turkey. Thyroid function tests (free T3, free T4, and TSH) and serum thyroid autoantibody (anti-TG, anti-TPO) levels were evaluated in all patients.Results. In vitiligo patients, 9 (8.3%) had elevated anti-TG levels and 16 (14.8%) had elevated anti-TPO, and in 17 patients (15.7%) TSH levels were elevated and 3 (2.8%) patients had elevated fT4levels and 5 (4.6%) had elevated fT3levels. Within AA patients, 2 (2.2%) had anti-TG elevation and 13 (14.1%) had anti-TPO elevation, in 7 patients (7.6%) TSH were elevated, and in 1 patient (1.1%) fT4were elevated and 5 (5.4%) patients had elevated fT3levels.Conclusion. In our study, impaired thyroid functions and thyroid autoantibodies in vitiligo and AA patients were identified at lower rates than the previous studies. According to results of this study there is no need for detailed examination in alopecia areata and vitiligo patients without clinical history.
Ozone Therapy in the Management of Persistent Radiation-Induced Rectal Bleeding in Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Clavo Bernardino , Santana-Rodriguez Norberto , Llontop Pedro , Gutierrez Dominga , Ceballos Daniel , Méndez Charlin , Rovira Gloria , Suarez Gerardo , Rey-Baltar Dolores , Garcia-Cabrera Laura , Martínez-Sánchez Gregorio , Fiuza Dolores
Published: August 2015

Introduction. Persistent radiation-induced proctitis and rectal bleeding are debilitating complications with limited therapeutic options. We present our experience with ozone therapy in the management of such refractory rectal bleeding.Methods. Patients (n=12) previously irradiated for prostate cancer with persistent or severe rectal bleeding without response to conventional treatment were enrolled to receive ozone therapy via rectal insufflations and/or topical application of ozonized-oil. Ten (83%) patients had Grade 3 or Grade 4 toxicity. Median follow-up after ozone therapy was 104 months (range: 52–119).Results. Following ozone therapy, the median grade of toxicity improved from 3 to 1 (p<0.001) and the number of endoscopy treatments from 37 to 4 (p=0.032). Hemoglobin levels changed from 11.1 (7–14) g/dL to 13 (10–15) g/dL, before and after ozone therapy, respectively (p=0.008). Ozone therapy was well tolerated and no adverse effects were noted, except soft and temporary flatulence for some hours after each session.Conclusions. Ozone therapy was effective in radiation-induced rectal bleeding in prostate cancer patients without serious adverse events. It proved useful in the management of rectal bleeding and merits further evaluation.
Fabrication and Characterization of CNT‐Based Smart Tips for Synchrotron Assisted STM
Authors: Yan Hui , Cummings Marvin , Camino Fernando , Xu Weihe , Lu Ming , Tong Xiao , Shirato Nozomi , Rosenmann Daniel , Rose Volker , Nazaretski Evgeny
Published: August 2015

Determination of chemical composition along with imaging at the atomic level provides critical information towards fundamental understanding of the surface of materials and, hence, yields the capability to design new materials by tailoring their ultimate functionalities. Synchrotron X‐ray assisted scanning tunneling microscopy (SX‐STM) is a promising new technique to achieve real space chemically specific atomic mapping. Chemical sensitivity of SX‐STM relies on excitation of core electrons by incident X‐rays when their energy is tuned to an absorption edge of a particular element. However, along with core‐level electrons, photoelectrons are also excited, which yield additional current and interfere with the tunneling current. To reduce the background photoelectron current and to improve ultimate resolution of SX‐STM, we have developed and fabricated multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) based “smart tips” using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition and focused ion beam milling. The newly developed CNT‐based smart tips, characterized step by step by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) during the fabrication process, demonstrate good performance and provide opportunity for realizing atomic chemical mapping.
Cepacia Syndrome in a Non-Cystic Fibrosis Patient
Authors: Hauser Naomi , Orsini Jose
Published: August 2015

Burkholderia(formerlyPseudomonas)cepaciacomplex is a known serious threat to patients with cystic fibrosis, in whom it has the potential to cause the fatal combination of necrotizing pneumonia, worsening respiratory failure, and bacteremia, known as Cepacia syndrome. The potential for this pathogen to infect non-cystic fibrosis patients is limited and its epidemiology is poorly understood. Previously reported cases of severeBurkholderia cepaciacomplex lung infection in immunocompetent hosts include pneumonia, bronchiectasis, pyopneumothorax, and cavitary lesions. We present a case of a 64-year-old man withStreptococcus pneumoniaecommunity-acquired pneumonia whose hospital course was complicated by developing cavitary lung lesions, bacteremia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. Repeated tracheal aspirate and blood cultures grewBurkholderia cepacia. Our case appears to be the first report of Cepacia syndrome in a patient without cystic fibrosis. This report raises concern regarding the potential severity of pulmonaryBurkholderia cepaciacomplex infection and the need to broaden clinicians’ suspicion for Cepacia syndrome. A framework to help diagnose and treat infected non-cystic fibrosis individuals may be useful.
Improved Route Discovery Based on Constructing Connected Dominating Set in MANET
Authors: Yang Zifen , Fu Deqian , Han Lihua , Jhang Seong Tae
Published: August 2015

A mobile ad hoc network (MANET) is widely applied in various urgent scenarios, benefiting from its feature that the hosts can communicate with each other without any physical infrastructure. An efficient routing function plays a critical role in MANET, and routing based on CDS is a promising approach. In this paper, a novel approach is proposed to obtain a stable routing path and prolong lifetime of MANET, by integrating three factors such as energy, mobility, and degree for the status of node minimum connected dominating set (SoN-MCDS). Extensive simulations show that the proposed protocol is superior to other classical ones in terms of lifetime and low energy consumption.
Reversible Watermarking Using Prediction-Error Expansion and Extreme Learning Machine
Authors: Gao Guangyong , Zhou Caixue , Cui Zongmin
Published: August 2015

Currently, the research for reversible watermarking focuses on the decreasing of image distortion. Aiming at this issue, this paper presents an improvement method to lower the embedding distortion based on the prediction-error expansion (PE) technique. Firstly, the extreme learning machine (ELM) with good generalization ability is utilized to enhance the prediction accuracy for image pixel value during the watermarking embedding, and the lower prediction error results in the reduction of image distortion. Moreover, an optimization operation for strengthening the performance of ELM is taken to further lessen the embedding distortion. With two popular predictors, that is, median edge detector (MED) predictor and gradient-adjusted predictor (GAP), the experimental results for the classical images and Kodak image set indicate that the proposed scheme achieves improvement for the lowering of image distortion compared with the classical PE scheme proposed by Thodi et al. and outperforms the improvement method presented by Coltuc and other existing approaches.
Neighborhood Racial Composition, Institutional Socialization, and Intraracial Feelings of Closeness among Black Americans
Authors: Jones Antwan , Andrews Marcus , Policastro Sara
Published: August 2015

Relying on nationally representative data from the most recent wave of the National Survey of Black Americans (NSBA), the current study examines how past and present neighborhood racial composition is associated with feelings of closeness toward black Americans, black Africans, and black West Indians. In addition, this research tests whether race-based socialization messages received from caregivers or religious socialization messages explain this relationship among a sample from the adult black US population. The findings show that past neighborhood composition is associated with present feelings of closeness toward black Americans and black West Indians but are not associated with close feelings toward black Africans. Current neighborhood racial composition is not associated with feelings of closeness toward any of the groups. Racial socialization messages are associated with closeness towards them all but are found to be largely a function of having a two-parent family during childhood. Religious socialization is also associated with intraracial feelings of closeness. Results suggest that neighborhood racial composition is important to help facilitate positive feelings toward others who share the same race but a different ethnicity.