bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Misregulation of PPAR Functioning and Its Pathogenic Consequences Associated with Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Human Obesity
Authors: Videla Luis A. , Pettinelli Paulina
Published: December 2012

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in human obesity is characterized by the multifactorial nature of the underlying pathogenic mechanisms, which include misregulation of PPARs signaling. Liver PPAR-αdownregulation with parallel PPAR-γand SREBP-1c up-regulation may trigger major metabolic disturbances betweende novolipogenesis and fatty acid oxidation favouring the former, in association with the onset of steatosis in obesity-induced oxidative stress and related long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid n-3 (LCPUFA n-3) depletion, insulin resistance, hypoadiponectinemia, and endoplasmic reticulum stress. Considering that antisteatotic strategies targeting PPAR-αrevealed that fibrates have poor effectiveness, thiazolidinediones have weight gain limitations, and dual PPAR-α/γagonists have safety concerns, supplementation with LCPUFA n-3 appears as a promising alternative, which achieves both significant reduction in liver steatosis scores and a positive anti-inflammatory outcome. This latter aspect is of importance as PPAR-αdownregulation associated with LCPUFA n-3 depletion may play a role in increasing the DNA binding capacity of proinflammatory factors, NF-κB and AP-1, thus constituting one of the major mechanisms for the progression of steatosis to steatohepatitis.
The One Step Optimal Homotopy Analysis Method to Circular Porous Slider
Authors: Ghoreishi Mohammad , Ismail Ahmad Izani B. Md. , Rashid Abdur
Published: December 2012

An incompressible Newtonian fluid is forced through the porous of a circular slider which is moving laterally on a horizontal plan. In this paper, we introduce and apply the one step Optimal Homotopy Analysis Method (one step OHAM) to the problem of the circular porous slider where a fluid is injected through the porous bottom. The effects of mass injection and lateral velocity on the heat generated by viscous dissipation are investigated by solving the governing boundary layer equations using one step optimal homotopy technique. The approximate solution for the coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations resulting from the momentum equation is obtained and discussed for different values of the Reynolds number of the velocity field. The solution obtained is also displayed graphically for various values of the Reynolds number and it is shown that the one step OHAM is capable of finding the approximate solution of circular porous slider.
Globalization of Chagas Disease: A Growing Concern in Nonendemic Countries
Authors: Klein Nicole , Hurwitz Ivy , Durvasula Ravi
Published: December 2012

Chagas disease, caused by the parasite Trypanosoma cruzi, is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in Central and South America. Initial infection and ensuing chronic infection often go undetected in the human host. High seroprevalence of T. cruzi infection is well documented in endemic areas. Designated as “a neglected tropical disease” by the World Health Organization, rural economically disadvantaged and marginalized populations in endemic countries traditionally have the highest rates of infection. As economic hardship, political instability, and the search for opportunity spur migration of infected humans from endemic to non-endemic areas of the world, blood bank data have documented rising seroprevalence of T. cruzi in traditionally nonendemic areas. In these areas, T. cruzi is transmitted through blood transfusion, organ transplantation, and maternal-fetal mechanisms. Increasing awareness of large numbers of infected immigrants in nonendemic countries, and the medical care they require, has focused attention on the need for strategic programs for screening affected populations, education of healthcare providers, and provision of necessary medical services for those infected. Physicians in nonendemic countries should be able to recognize signs and symptoms of acute and chronic Chagas disease as migration and globalization increase the burden of disease in non-endemic areas.
NBI and NBI Combined with Magnifying Colonoscopy
Authors: Iwatate Mineo , Ikumoto Taro , Hattori Santa , Sano Wataru , Sano Yasushi , Fujimori Takahiro
Published: December 2012

Although magnifying chromoendoscopy had been a reliable diagnostic tool, narrow-band imaging (NBI) has been developed in Japan since 1999 and has now replaced the major role of chromoendoscopy because of its convenience and simplicity. In this paper, we principally describe the efficacy of magnifying chromoendoscopy and magnifying colonoscopy with NBI for detection, histological prediction, estimation of the depth of early colorectal cancer, and future prospects. Although some meta-analyses have concluded that NBI is not superior to white light imaging for detection of adenomatous polyps in screening colonoscopy, NBI with magnification colonoscopy is useful for histological prediction, or for estimating the depth of invasion. To standardize these diagnostic strategies, we will focus on the NBI International Colorectal Endoscopic (NICE) classification proposed for use by endoscopists with or without a magnifying endoscope. However, more prospective research is needed to prove that this classification can be applied with satisfactory availability, feasibility, and reliability. In the future, NBI might contribute to the evaluation of real-time histological prediction during colonoscopy, which has substantial benefits for both reducing the risk of polypectomy and saving the cost of histological evaluation by resecting and discarding diminutive adenomatous polyps (resect and discard strategy).
A Case of Severe Hydroxychloroquine-Induced Retinal Toxicity in a Patient with Recent Onset of Renal Impairment: A Review of the Literature on the Use of Hydroxychloroquine in Renal Impairment
Authors: Tailor Rajen , Elaraoud Ibrahim , Good Peter , Hope-Ross Monique , Scott Robert A. H.
Published: December 2012

We present a case of a 67-year-old female who presented with a twelve-month history of progressive blurred vision in both eyes. The patient was on hydroxychloroquine 200 mg twice a day for eight years for the treatment of scarring alopecia. Two years prior to presenting, the patient was found to have chronic kidney disease stage 3 secondary to hypertension. Examination revealed bilateral reduced visual acuities with attenuated arterioles and pigmentary changes on retinal assessment. Goldmann visual fields showed grossly constricted fields in both eyes. The patient was diagnosed with retinal toxicity secondary to hydroxychloroquine probably potentiated by renal impairment. Risk factors for retinal toxicity secondary to hydroxychloroquine can be broadly divided into dose-related and patient-related factors. Our patient developed severe retinal toxicity despite being on the recommended daily dose (400 mg per day). Although retinal toxicity at this dose has been documented, the development of renal impairment without dose adjustment or close monitoring of visual function is likely to have potentiated retinal toxicity. This case highlights the need to monitor renal function in patients on hydroxychloroquine. Should renal impairment develop, either the drug should be stopped or the dose reduced with close monitoring of visual function by an ophthalmologist.
Optimal H.264 Scalable Video Scheduling Policies for 3G/4G Wireless Cellular and Video Sensor Networks
Authors: Reddyvari Vamseedhar R. , Jagannatham Aditya K.
Published: December 2012

We consider the problem of optimal H.264 scalable video scheduling, with an objective of maximizing the end-user video quality while ensuring fairness in 3G/4G broadband wireless networks and video sensor networks. We propose a novel framework to characterize the video quality-based utility of the H.264 temporal and quality scalable video layers. Subsequently, we formulate the scalable video scheduling framework as a Markov decision process (MDP) for long-term average video utility maximization and derive the optimal index based-scalable video scheduling policies ISVP and ISVPF towards video quality maximization. Further, we extend this framework to multiuser and multisubchannel scenario of 4G wireless networks. In this context, we propose two novel schemes for long-term streaming video quality performance optimization based on maximum weight bipartite and greedy matching paradigms. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed algorithms achieve superior end-user video experience compared to competing scheduling policies such as Proportional Fairness (PF), Linear Index Policy (LIP), Rate Starvation Age policy (RSA), and Quality Proportional Fair Policy (QPF).
Analysis of a Microgrid under Transient Conditions Using Voltage and Frequency Controller
Authors: Jain Monika , Gupta Sushma , Masand Deepika , Agnihotri Gayatri
Published: December 2012

This paper presents an investigation of voltage-and-frequency-(VF-) based battery energy storage system (BESS) controller used in micro grid for analyzing the optimum capability of plant. Microgrid is formed by using three hydropower plants feeding three-phase four-wire load. The proposed controller is used for load balancing, harmonic elimination, load leveling, and neutral current compensation. The proposed BESS controller permits the selection of an optimum voltage level of battery and allows independent current control of each phase. The main emphasis is given on maintaining constant voltage and frequency within the micro grid during transient conditions. Micro grid with power plant and its controller is modeled in MATLAB/Simulink using Power System Blockset (PSB) toolboxes.
The Effect of Three Months of Aerobic Training on Stroop Performance in Older Adults
Authors: Predovan David , Fraser Sarah A. , Renaud Mélanie , Bherer Louis
Published: December 2012

Growing evidence supports the use of physical training interventions to improve both physical and cognitive performances in healthy older adults. Few studies have examined the impact of aerobic exercise on Stroop task performance, a measure of executive functions. In the current 3-month aerobic training study, 50 older adults (mean age = 67.96 ± 6.25 years) were randomly assigned to either a three-month physical training group or to a control group (waiting list). Training sessions were 3 times per week for 60 minutes. All participants completed pre- and post-test measures of cognitive performance using the modified Stroop task and physical performance (Rockport one-mile test). Compared to controls, the training group showed significant improvements in physical capacity (P<0.001) and enhanced Stroop performance, but only in the inhibition/switching condition (P<0.03). Furthermore, the increase in aerobic capacity induced by the training regimen correlated negatively with reaction time in the inhibition/switching condition of the Stroop task at posttest (r=−0.538;P=0.007). Importantly, the reported gains in cognitive performance were observed after only three months of physical training. Taken together, the results suggest that even short-term physical interventions can enhance older adults’ executive functions.
The Role of the Cullin-5 E3 Ubiquitin Ligase in the Regulation of Insulin Receptor Substrate-1
Authors: Hu Christine Zhiwen , Sethi Jaswinder K. , Hagen Thilo
Published: December 2012

Background. SOCS proteins are known to negatively regulate insulin signaling by inhibiting insulin receptor substrate-1 (IRS1). IRS1 has been reported to be a substrate for ubiquitin-dependent proteasomal degradation. Given that SOCS proteins can function as substrate receptor subunits of Cullin-5 E3 ubiquitin ligases, we examined whether Cullin-5 dependent ubiquitination is involved in the regulation of basal IRS1 protein stability and signal-induced IRS1 degradation.Findings. Our results indicate that basal IRS1 stability varies between cell types. However, the Cullin-5 E3 ligase does not play a major role in mediating IRS1 ubiquitination under basal conditions. Protein kinase C activation triggered pronounced IRS1 destabilization. However, this effect was also independent of the function of Cullin-5 E3 ubiquitin ligases.Conclusions. In conclusion, SOCS proteins do not exert a negative regulatory effect on IRS1 by functioning as substrate receptors for Cullin-5-based E3 ubiquitin ligases both under basal conditions and when IRS1 degradation is induced by protein kinase C activation.
Analysis of Criteria for MRI Diagnosis of TMJ Disc Displacement and Arthralgia
Authors: Shaefer Jeffry R. , Riley Cara Joy , Caruso Paul , Keith David
Published: December 2012

Aims. To improve diagnostic criteria for TMJ disc displacement (DD).Methods. The standard protocol for MRI diagnosis of DD, using a 12 o’clock reference position, was compared to an alternative protocol. The alternative protocol involves the functional relationship between the condyle and articular eminence, using a line perpendicular to the posterior slope of the eminence as a reference for disc position. The disc location was examined using both protocols, and disc diagnoses were compared in their relationship with joint pain. Statistical analyses includedPvalue, sensitivity, specificity, odds ratio, and kappa statistic.Results. 58 MRIs were interpreted. 36 subjects reported arthralgia; 22 did not. Both protocols demonstrated significance (standardP=0.004, alternativeP<0.001) for the ability to predict arthralgia. The odds of arthralgia increased in DD patients diagnosed by standard methods 9.71 times and in DD diagnosed by alternative means 37.15 times. The diagnostic sensitivity decreased 30% using the alternative versus the standard protocol (0.6389 versus 0.9444), while specificity increased 60% (0.9545 versus 0.3636).Conclusions. A stronger relationship occurs between DD and arthralgia when using a function-based protocol. The alternative protocol correctly identifies subjects without arthralgia, who by standard methods would be diagnosed with DD, as having nondisplaced discs, providing a more clinically relevant assessment of TMJ disc displacement.
MART-10, a New Generation of Vitamin D Analog, Is More Potent than 1α,25-Dihydroxyvitamin D3in Inhibiting Cell Proliferation and Inducing Apoptosis in ER+ MCF-7 Breast Cancer Cells
Authors: Chiang Kun-Chun , Yeh Chun-Nan , Chen Shin-Cheh , Shen Shih-Che , Hsu Jun-Te , Yeh Ta-sen , Pang Jong-Hwei S. , Su Li-Jen , Takano Masashi , Kittaka Atsushi , Juang Horng-Heng , Chen Tai C.
Published: December 2012

Hormone antagonist therapy for estrogen receptor positive (ER+) breast cancer patients post radical surgery and radiation therapy has a poor prognosis and also causes bone loss. 1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3[1α,25(OH)2D3] is a potent antitumor agent in pre-clinical studies, but caused hypercalcemia when its effective antitumor doses were used. Therefore, we investigated the effects of a less-calcemic 1α,25(OH)2D3analog, 19-nor-2α-(3-hydroxypropyl)-1α,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3(MART-10), on ER+MCF-7 cells. We demonstrate that MART-10 is 500- to 1000-fold more potent than 1α,25(OH)2D3in inhibiting cell growth in a dose- and time-dependent manner. MART-10 is also much more potent in arresting MCF-7cell cycle progression at G0/G1phase as compared to 1α,25(OH)2D3, possibly mediated by a greater induction of p21 and p27 expression. Moreover, MART-10 is more active than 1α,25(OH)2D3in causing cell apoptosis, likely through a higher BAX/Bcl expression ratio and the subsequent cytochrome C release from mitochondria to cytosol. Based on ourin vitrofindings, MART-10 could be a promising vitamin D analog for the potential treatment of breast cancer, for example, ER+ patients, to decrease the tumor relapse rate and the side effect on bone caused by antihormone regimens. Thus, furtherin vivoanimal study is warranted.
Effects of Lipid Regulation Using Raw and Processed Radix Polygoni Multiflori in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet
Authors: Li Na , Chen Zhen , Mao Xiaojian , Yu Jie , Zhao Ronghua
Published: December 2012

Raw and processed Radix Polygoni Multiflori have been used in the prevention and treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hyperlipidemia, and related diseases in Asian counties for centuries. The lipid regulation ability of raw and processed Poligoni Multiflori Radix were compared in high-fat diet fed rats in this research. Total cholesterol (TC) and low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) in blood and liver tissue were all significantly higher in model rats. However, triglyceride (TG) contents increased only in liver tissue, not in the blood samples. The rats fed the high-fat diets were considered the model of type IIa hyperlipidemia and early-stage nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Both Radix Polygoni Multiflori (RPM) and Radix Polygoni Multiflori Praeparata (RPMP) revealed TC-lowing effects, and middling doses of RPMP displayed the most significant TC-lowing effects, as indicated by blood samples. Neither RPM nor RPMP was found to reduce LDL-C in rats' blood. Nevertheless, RPM showed dose-dependent TC- and TG-lowing effects in the liver tissue samples. In conclusion, RPM showed more pronounced effects on lipid regulation in liver samples in the treatment of early-stage NAFLD. RPMP, however, displayed better effects in regulating lipids in circulating blood for the treatment of hyperlipidemia.
Multitarget Tracking of Pedestrians in Video Sequences Based on Particle Filters
Authors: Li Hui , Xiong Shengwu , Duan Pengfei , Kong Xiangzhen
Published: December 2012

Video target tracking is a critical problem in the field of computer vision. Particle filters have been proven to be very useful in target tracking for nonlinear and non-Gaussian estimation problems. Although most existing algorithms are able to track targets well in controlled environments, it is often difficult to achieve automated and robust tracking of pedestrians in video sequences if there are various changes in target appearance or surrounding illumination. To surmount these difficulties, this paper presents multitarget tracking of pedestrians in video sequences based on particle filters. In order to improve the efficiency and accuracy of the detection, the algorithm firstly obtains target regions in training frames by combining the methods of background subtraction and Histogram of Oriented Gradient (HOG) and then establishes discriminative appearance model by generating patches and constructing codebooks using superpixel and Local Binary Pattern (LBP) features in those target regions. During the process of tracking, the algorithm uses the similarity between candidates and codebooks as observation likelihood function and processes severe occlusion condition to prevent drift and loss phenomenon caused by target occlusion. Experimental results demonstrate that our algorithm improves the tracking performance in complicated real scenarios.
Spontaneous Hemocholecyst in an End-Stage Renal Failure Patient on Low Molecular Weight Heparin Hemodialysis
Authors: Blouhos Konstantinos , Boulas Konstantinos A. , Tselios Dimitrios G. , Hatzigeorgiadis Anestis
Published: December 2012

The present paper describes a case of spontaneous hemocholecyst in a patient with end-stage renal failure on low molecular weight heparin hemodialysis. The patient presented with acute right upper quadrant pain. An initial ultrasound scan demonstrated a distended gallbladder containing echogenic bile without stones. During hospitalization the patient became febrile, and jaundiced, developed leukocytosis, and had an elevation in serum bilirubin, transaminases, and alkaline phosphatase. A new ultrasound demonstrated a thick-walled gallbladder containing echogenic bile and pericholecystic fluid. MRI depicted a distended gallbladder containing material of mixed signal intensity and a normal biliary tract. Open cholecystectomy revealed a gallbladder filled with blood and clots, and transcystic common bile duct exploration flushed blood clots out of the bile duct. To our knowledge this is the second case of spontaneous hemocholecyst reported in the literature as a consequence of uremic bleeding and LMWH hemodialysis in the absence of other pathology.
Silica Nanoparticles Sensitize Human Multiple Myeloma Cells to Snake (Walterinnesia aegyptia) Venom-Induced Apoptosis and Growth Arrest
Authors: Sayed Douaa , Al-Sadoon Mohamed K. , Badr Gamal
Published: December 2012

Background. Multiple myeloma (MM), an almost incurable disease, is the second most common blood cancer. Initial chemotherapeutic treatment could be successful; however, resistance development urges the use of higher toxic doses accompanied by hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The establishment of more effective treatments that can overcome or circumvent chemoresistance has become a priority. We recently demonstrated that venom extracted fromWalterinnesia aegyptia(WEV) either alone or in combination with silica nanoparticles (WEV+NPs) mediated the growth arrest and apoptosis of prostate cancer cells. In the present study, we evaluated the impact of WEV alone and WEV+NP on proliferation and apoptosis of MM cells.Methods. The impacts of WEV alone and WEV+NP were monitored in MM cells from 70 diagnosed patients. The influences of WEV and WEV+NP were assessed with flow cytometry analysis.Results. WEV alone and WEV+NP decreased the viability of MM cells. Using a CFSE proliferation assay, we found that WEV+NP strongly inhibited MM cell proliferation. Furthermore, analysis of the cell cycle using the propidium iodide (PI) staining method indicated that WEV+NP strongly altered the cell cycle of MM cells and enhanced the induction of apoptosis.Conclusions. Our data reveal the biological effects of WEV and WEV+NP on MM cells that enable these compounds to function as effective treatments for MM.
Incremental Healthcare Expenditures Associated with Thyroid Disorders among Individuals with Diabetes
Authors: Raval Amit D. , Sambamoorthi Usha
Published: December 2012

Objective. To estimate incremental healthcare expenditures associated with thyroid disorders among individuals with diabetes.Research Design and Methods. Cross-sectional study design with data on adults over 20 years of age with diabetes (N=4,490) from two years (2007 and 2009) of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) was used. Ordinary least square regressions on log-transformed total expenditures and type of healthcare expenditures (inpatient, emergency room, outpatient, prescription drug, and other) were performed to estimate the incremental expenditures associated with thyroid disorders after controlling for demographic, socioeconomic, health status, lifestyle risk factors, macrovascular comorbid conditions (MCCs), and chronic conditions (CCs).Results. Among individuals with diabetes, those with thyroid disorders had significantly greater average annual total healthcare expenditures ($15,182) than those without thyroid disorders ($11,093). Individuals with thyroid disorders had 34.3% greater total healthcare expenditures compared to those without thyroid disorders, after controlling for demographic, socio-economic, and perceived health status. Furthermore, controlling for CCs and MCCs, this increase in expenditures was reduced to 21.4%.Conclusions. Among individuals with diabetes, thyroid disorders were associated with greater healthcare expenditures; such excess expenditures may be due to CCs and MCCs. Comanagement of CCs and reducing MCCs may be a pathway to reduce high healthcare expenditures.
Stability of Teleoperation Systems for Time‐Varying Delays by Neutral LMI Techniques
Authors: Delgado Emma , Díaz-Cacho Miguel , Barreiro Antonio
Published: December 2012

This paper investigates the delay‐dependent stability of a teleoperation system based on the transparent Generalized Four‐Channel control (G‐4C) scheme under time‐varying communication delays. To address stability we choose here a primitive result providing a Linear Matrix Inequalities (LMIs) approach based on Lyapunov‐Krasovskii functionals. Firstly, the scheme is modeled as the neutral‐type differential‐delayed equation; that is, the delay affects not only the state but also the state derivative. Secondly, we apply a less conservative stability criteria based on LMIs that are delay dependent and delay′s time‐derivative dependent. The reason is that, for better performance in the case of small delays, we must accept the possibility that stability is lost for large delays. The approach is applied to an example, and its advantages are discussed. As a result, we propose to modify the values of standard controllers in G‐4C defining the μ‐4C scheme, which introduces a tuning factor μ to increase in practical conditions the stable region fixing the desired bounds on time‐varying delay, with the particularity of maintaining the tracking properties provided by this transparent control scheme. The simulation results justify the proposed control architecture and confirm robust stability and performance.
Particle Swarm Optimization Algorithm Coupled with Finite Element Limit Equilibrium Method for Geotechnical Practices
Authors: Li Hongjun , Zhong Hong , Yan Zuwen , Zhang Xuedong
Published: December 2012

This paper proposes a modified particle swarm optimization algorithm coupled with the finite element limit equilibrium method (FELEM) for the minimum factor of safety and the location of associated noncircular critical failure surfaces for various geotechnical practices. During the search process, the stress compatibility constraints coupled with the geometrical and kinematical compatibility constraints are firstly established based on the features of slope geometry and stress distribution to guarantee realistic slip surfaces from being unreasonable. Furthermore, in the FELEM, based on rigorous theoretical analyses and derivation, it is noted that the physical meaning of the factor of safety can be formulated on the basis of strength reserving theory rather than the overloading theory. Consequently, compared with the limit equilibrium method (LEM) and the shear strength reduction method (SSRM) through several numerical examples, the FELEM in conjunction with the improved search strategy is proved to be an effective and efficient approach to routine analysis and design in geotechnical practices with a high level of confidence.
Multicenter Retrospective Analysis of the Effectiveness and Safety of Rituximab in Korean Patients with Refractory Systemic Lupus Erythematosus
Authors: Bang So-Young , Lee Chang Keun , Kang Young Mo , Kim Hyoun-Ah , Suh Chang-Hee , Chung Won Tae , Park Yong-Beom , Choe Jung-Yoon , Kim Tae-Jong , Park Yong-Wook , Yoo Dae-Hyun , Bae Sang-Cheol , Lee Hye-Soon
Published: December 2012

Objective. Although two recent randomized placebo-controlled trials of rituximab (RTX) failed to demonstrate efficacy in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), clinicians continue to use off-label RTX for cases refractory to current treatments. We evaluated the effectiveness and safety of rituximab for patients with refractory SLE in Korea.Methods. We retrospectively analyzed multicenter patients treated with RTX in Korea.Results. 39 SLE patients treated with RTX were included in the following manner: lupus nephritis 43.6%, hematologic 33.3%, arthritis 7.8%, myositis 7.8%, and others 7.7%. All patients had responded poorly to at least one conventional immunosuppressive agent (mean2.5±1.1, cyclophosphamide 43.6%, mycophenolate mofetil 48.7%, and other drugs) before RTX. Clinical improvements (complete or partial remission) occurred in patients with renal disease, hematologic disease, arthritis, myositis, and other manifestations at 6 months after RTX. The SLEDAI score was significantly decreased from10.8±7.1at baseline to6.7±4.0at 6 months,6.2±4.1at 12 months, and5.5±3.6at 24 months after RTX (P<0.05). Among 28 clinical responders, 4 patients experienced a relapse of disease at25±4months. Infections were noted in 3 patients (7.7%).Conclusion. RTX could be an effective and relatively safe therapeutic option in patients with severe refractory SLE until novel B-cell depletion therapy is available.
Divisibility Criteria for Class Numbers of Imaginary Quadratic Fields Whose Discriminant Has Only Two Prime Factors
Authors: Pekin A.
Published: December 2012

We will prove a theorem providing sufficient condition for the divisibility of class numbers of certain imaginary quadratic fields by 2g, where g > 1 is an integer and the discriminant of such fields has only two prime divisors.
Optimizing Surgical Margins in Breast Conservation
Authors: Ananthakrishnan Preya , Balci Fatih Levent , Crowe Joseph P.
Published: December 2012

Adequate surgical margins in breast-conserving surgery for breast cancer have traditionally been viewed as a predictor of local recurrence rates. There is still no consensus on what constitutes an adequate surgical margin, however it is clear that there is a trade-off between widely clear margins and acceptable cosmesis. Preoperative approaches to plan extent of resection with appropriate margins (in the setting of surgery first as well as after neoadjuvant chemotherapy,) include mammography, US, and MRI. Improvements have been made in preoperative lesion localization strategies for surgery, as well as intraoperative specimen assessment, in order to ensure complete removal of imaging findings and facilitate margin clearance. Intraoperative strategies to accurately assess tumor and cavity margins include cavity shave techniques, as well as novel technologies for margin probes. Ablative techniques, including radiofrequency ablation as well as intraoperative radiation, may be used to extend tumor-free margins without resecting additional tissue. Oncoplastic techniques allow for wider resections while maintaining cosmesis and have acceptable local recurrence rates, however often involve surgery on the contralateral breast. As systemic therapy for breast cancer continues to improve, it is unclear what the importance of surgical margins on local control rates will be in the future.
Constant Accelerated Flow for a Third‐Grade Fluid in a Porous Medium and a Rotating Frame with the Homotopy Analysis Method
Authors: Abdul Aziz Zainal , Nazari Mojtaba , Salah Faisal , Ching Dennis Ling Chuan
Published: December 2012

The homotopy analysis method (HAM) is applied to obtain the approximate analytic solution of a constant accelerated flow for a third‐grade fluid in a porous medium and a rotating frame. HAM is an analytic technique which provides us with a new way to obtain series solutions of such nonlinear problems. The approximate analytic solution for constant accelerated flow is obtained by using HAM. HAM contains the auxiliary parameter ℏ, which provides us with a straightforward way to obtain the convergence region of the series solution. Graphical results are plotted and the consequences discussed. The obtained solutions clearly satisfy the governing equations and all the imposed initial and boundary conditions. Many interesting results can be obtained as the special cases of the presented analysis. The influence of the material parameters of a third‐grade fluid and rotation upon the velocity field is finally deliberated.
Leakage Characteristic of Helical Groove Seal Designed in Reactor Coolant Pump
Authors: Zhang Meng , Wang Xiao-fang , Xu Sheng-li , Yin Shuo
Published: December 2012

Helical groove seal is designed in reactor coolant pump to control the leakage along the front surface of the impeller face due to its higher resistance than the circumferentially grooved seal. The flow and the friction factors in helical groove seals are predicted by employing a commercial CFD code, FLUENT. The friction factors of the helical groove seals with helix angles varying from 20 deg to 50 deg, at a range of rotational speed and axial Reynolds number, were, respectively, calculated. For the helically grooved stator with the helix angle greater than 20 deg, the leakage shows an upward trend with the helix angle. The circumferentially grooved stator has a lower resistance to leakage than the 20 deg and 30 deg stators. It can be predicated that, for a bigger helix angle, the friction factor increases slightly with an increase in high axial Reynolds number, which arises from the high-pressure operation condition, and the friction factor is generally sensitive to changes in the helix angle in this operation condition. The study lays the theoretical foundation for liquid seal design of reactor coolant pump and future experimental study to account for the high-pressure condition affecting the leakage characteristic.
Genetic Algorithm for Multiuser Discrete Network Design Problem under Demand Uncertainty
Authors: Juan Wu , Huapu Lu , Xinxin Yu , Changzhi Bian
Published: December 2012

Discrete network design is an important part of urban transportation planning. The purpose of this paper is to present a bilevel model for discrete network design. The upper‐level model aims to minimize the total travel time under a stochastic demand to design a discrete network. In the lower‐level model, demands are assigned to the network through a multiuser traffic equilibrium assignment. Generally, discrete network could affect path selections of demands, while the results of the multiuser traffic equilibrium assignment need to reconstruct a new discrete network. An iterative approach including an improved genetic algorithm and Frank‐Wolfe algorithm is used to solve the bi‐level model. The numerical results on Nguyen Dupuis network show that the model and the related algorithms were effective for discrete network design.
Chronic Administration of a Combination of Six Herbs Inhibits the Progression of Hyperglycemia and Decreases Serum Lipids and Aspartate Amino Transferase Activity in Diabetic Rats
Authors: Shafiee-Nick Reza , Ghorbani Ahmad , Vafaee Bagheri Farzaneh , Rakhshandeh Hassan
Published: December 2012

The effects of a polyherbal compound, containing six plants (Allium sativum, Cinnamomum zeylanicum, Nigella sativa, Punica granatum, Salvia officinalis and Teucrium polium) were tested on biochemical parameters in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Streptozotocin caused an approximately 3-fold increase in fasting blood sugar level after 2 days. The diabetic control rats showed further increase in blood glucose after 30 days (384 ± 25 mg/dl in day 30 versus 280 ± 12 mg/dl in day 2,P<0.001). Administration of the compound blocked the increase of blood glucose (272 ± 7 and 269 ± 48 mg/dl at day 2 and day 30, respectively). Also, there was significant difference in the level of triglyceride (60 ± 9 versus 158 ± 37 mg/dl,P<0.01), total cholesterol (55 ± 2 versus 97 ± 11 mg/dl, P < 0.01) and aspartate amino transferase activity (75 ± 12 versus 129 ± 18 U/L,P<0.05) between treated rats and diabetic control group. In conclusion, the MSEC inhibited the progression of hyperglycemia and decreased serum lipids and hepatic enzyme activity in diabetic rats. Therefore, it has the potential to be used as a natural product for the management of diabetes.
Modeling Innate Immune Response to EarlyMycobacteriumInfection
Authors: Carvalho Rafael V. , Kleijn Jetty , Meijer Annemarie H. , Verbeek Fons J.
Published: December 2012

In the study of complex patterns in biology, mathematical and computational models are emerging as important tools. In addition to experimental approaches, these modeling tools have recently been applied to address open questions regarding host-pathogen interaction dynamics, including the immune response to mycobacterial infection and tuberculous granuloma formation. We present an approach in which a computational model represents the interaction of theMycobacteriuminfection with the innate immune system in zebrafish at a high level of abstraction. We use the Petri Net formalism to model the interaction between the key host elements involved in granuloma formation and infection dissemination. We define a qualitative model for the understanding and description of causal relations in this dynamic process. Complex processes involving cell-cell or cell-bacteria communication can be modeled at smaller scales and incorporated hierarchically into this main model; these are to be included in later elaborations. With the infection mechanism being defined on a higher level, lower-level processes influencing the host-pathogen interaction can be identified, modeled, and tested both quantitatively and qualitatively. This systems biology framework incorporates modeling to generate and test hypotheses, to perform virtual experiments, and to make experimentally verifiable predictions. Thereby it supports the unraveling of the mechanisms of tuberculosis infection.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy for Mildly Obese Patients (Body Mass Index of 30 <35 kg/m2): Operative Outcome and Short-Term Results
Authors: Noun Roger , Chakhtoura Ghassan , Nasr Marwan , Skaff Judith , Choucair Naîm , Rkaybi Nathalie , Tohme-Noun Carla
Published: December 2012

Background. Data concerning laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) in mild obesity are under investigation.Aim/Objective. May 2010 to May 2012, 122 consecutive patients with preoperative body mass index (BMI) of33±2.5 kg/m2(range 30–34.9) undergoing LSG were studied. Mean age was33±10years (range 15–60), and 105 (86%) were women. Mean preoperative weight was91±9.7 kg (range 66–121), and preoperative excess weight was30±6.7 kg (range 19–43). Comorbidities were detected in 44 (36%) patients.Results. Mean operative time was58±15 min (range 40–95), and postoperative stay was1.8±0.19days (range 1.5–3). There were no admissions to intensive care unit and no deaths within 30 days of surgery. The rates of leaks and strictures were 0%, and of hemorrhage 1.6%. At 12 months, BMI decreased to24.7±2, and the percentage of excess weight loss (% EWL) reached 76.5%. None of the patients had a BMI below 20 kg/m2. Comorbidities resolved in 70.5% or improved in 29.5%. Patient satisfaction scoring (1–5) at least 1 year after was4.6±0.8for body image and4.4±0.6for food tolerance.Conclusion. LSG for mildly obese patients has proved to be technically relatively easy, safe, and benefic in the short term.
EFD and CFD Design and Analysis of a Propeller in Decelerating Duct
Authors: Gaggero Stefano , Rizzo Cesare M. , Tani Giorgio , Viviani Michele
Published: December 2012

Ducted propellers, in decelerating duct configuration, may represent a possible solution for the designer to reduce cavitation and its side effects, that is, induced pressures and radiated noise; however, their design still presents challenges, due to the complex evaluation of the decelerating duct effects and to the limited amount of available experimental information. In the present paper, a hybrid design approach, adopting a coupled lifting line/panel method solver and a successive refinement with panel solver and optimization techniques, is presented. In order to validate this procedure and provide information about these propulsors, experimental results at towing tank and cavitation tunnel are compared with numerical predictions. Moreover, additional results obtained by means of a commercial RANS solver, not directly adopted in the design loop, are also presented, allowing to stress the relative merits and shortcomings of the different numerical approaches.
Adjuvant Hormonal Therapy in Postmenopausal Women with Breast Cancer: Physician’s Choices
Authors: Shaikh Asim Jamal , Kumar Shiyam , Raza Sajjad , Mehboob Maria , Ishtiaq Osama
Published: December 2012

The choice of adjuvant hormonal therapy in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor positive breast cancer has remained a matter of controversy and debate. The variety of agents is available, with each claiming to be superior. This clinical survey was undertaken to get an impression of the physician’s first choice of therapy in an attempt to find out what questions still need to be answered in the making of “standard of care.” A web-based clinical survey was sent to the cancer physicians around the world, and 182 physicians responded to the survey. Most were medical oncologists in a tertiary care hospital. 36.3% preferred Anastrozole, 35.2% Tamoxifen, and 22.2% Letrozole as their first choice. Data support (67.8%) and safety concerns (30%) were given as the main reasons for the choice, 63.7% switched their therapy, and 24% had to switch because of side effects. 73.6% used 5 years of adjuvant hormonal therapy, 6.6% for 7 years, and 4.4% for 10 years. 61.5% follow their patients 3 times monthly, and 73.2% used laboratory and radiological assessment at each followup.Conclusion. Physicians show disagreement over the choice and duration of hormonal therapy in this patient population. Clinical trials leading to firm recommendations to set standards from which patients benefit the most are needed.
A Dynamic Data-Driven Framework for Biological Data Using 2D Barcodes
Authors: Li Hui , Liu Chunmei
Published: December 2012

Biology data is increasing exponentially from biological laboratories. It is a complicated problem for further processing the data. Processing computational data and data from biological laboratories manually may lead to potential errors in further analysis. In this paper, we proposed an efficient data-driven framework to inspect laboratory equipment and reduce impending failures. Our method takes advantage of the 2D barcode technology which can be installed on the specimen as a trigger for the data-driven system. For this end, we proposed a series of algorithms to speed up the data processing. The results show that the proposed system increases the system's scalability and flexibility. Also, it demonstrates the ability of linking a physical object with digital information to reduce the manual work related to experimental specimen. The characteristics such as high capacity of storage and data management of the 2D barcode technology provide a solution to collect experimental laboratory data in a quick and accurate fashion.
Strong Convergence Theorems for Modifying Halpern Iterations for Quasi‐ϕ‐Asymptotically Nonexpansive Multivalued Mapping in Banach Spaces with Applications
Authors: Yi Li
Published: December 2012

An iterative sequence for quasi‐ϕ‐asymptotically nonexpansive multivalued mapping for modifying Halpern′s iterations is introduced. Under suitable conditions, some strong convergence theorems are proved. The results presented in the paper improve and extend the corresponding results in the work by Chang et al. 2011.
The Efficacy of Mizoribine (Inosine Monophosphate Dehydrogenase Inhibitor) for ANCA-Associated Vasculitis with Hepatitis B Virus Carrier
Authors: Muratsu Jun , Morishima Atsuyuki , Kukida Masayoshi , Tanaka Anzu , Fujita Shigeki , Sakaguchi Katsuhiko
Published: December 2012

A 42-year-old female who was an asymptomatic carrier of hepatitis B virus (HBV) was diagnosed with antineutrophil cytoplasm antibody- (ANCA-) associated vasculitis and was induced to remission with 30 mg/day prednisolone nine years ago. Four years ago, she suffered recurrence of ANCA-associated vasculitis and with 30 mg/day prednisolone was induced to remission. This time, laboratory data showed 3-fold increase in myeloperoxidase antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (MPO-ANCA) levels. Administration of 30 mg/day prednisolone was started. Three days later, she was admitted to our hospital suffering from fatigue. After admission, urinalysis showed glomerular hematuria. Despite administration of 30 mg/day prednisolone, MPO-ANCA titer had been of high level, ranging from 42 to 83 EU for 2.5 months. Furthermore, the adverse effects of steroid were seen. We decided the tapering of prednisolone (25 mg/day) and the start of mizoribine (4-carbamoyl-1-β-D-ribofuranosyl imidazolium-5-olate) administration. After mizoribine treatment, MPO-ANCA titer was decreased without any mizoribine-related adverse effects. Six months later, MPO-ANCA titer was decreased to normal levels and she was induced to clinical remission without reactivation of HBV. We describe the effectiveness of mizoribine for the ANCA-associated vasculitis complicated with HBV-carrier.
A Rectourethral Fistula due to Transrectal High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound Treatment: Diagnosis and Management
Authors: Fiaschetti Valeria , Manenti Guglielmo , Di Poce Isabelle , Fornari Maria , Ricci Aurora , Finazzi Agrò Enrico , Simonetti Giovanni
Published: December 2012

Colovesical fistula (CVF) is an abnormal connection between the enteric and the urinary systems. The rectourethral fistula (RUF) is a possible but extremely rare complication of treatment of prostate cancer with “transrectal High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) treatment.” We present a case of CVF due to HIFU treatment of recurrent prostate cancer. The case was assessed with cystography completed with a pelvic CT scan—with MPR, MIP, and VR reconstruction—before emptying the bladder. Since the CT scan confirmed that the fistula involved solely the urethra and excluded even a minimal involvement of the bladder, it was possible to employ a conservative treatment by positioning a Foley catheter of monthly duration, in order to allow the urethra to rest. Still today, after 6 months, the patient is in a good clinical condition and has not shown yet signs of a recurrence of the fistula.
Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide as an Efficient Catalyst for the One‐Pot, Solvent‐Free Synthesis of 5,5‐Disubstituted Hexahydropyrimidines and Their Spiro Analogues
Authors: Janati Fatemeh , Heravi Majid M. , Mirshokraie Ahmad
Published: December 2012

Superparamagnetic Fe3O4 is shown to act as a very efficient catalyst for the one‐pot, three‐component synthesis of 5,5‐disubstituted hexahydropyrimidines and their spiropiperidines. The catalyst is easily recovered by the use of an external magnet and reused in several reactions without any noticeable loss of activity. The products are obtained in short time and good purity upon separation of the catalyst and evaporation of the volatiles of the reaction mixture.
Column Adsorption Studies for the Removal of Cr(VI) Ions by Ethylamine Modified Chitosan Carbonized Rice Husk Composite Beads with Modelling and Optimization
Authors: Sugashini S. , Sheriffa Begum K. M. Meera
Published: December 2012

The objective of this present study is the optimization of process parameters in adsorption of Cr(VI) ions by ethylamine modified chitosan carbonized rice husk composite beads (EAM‐CCRCBs) using response surface methodology (RSM) and continuous adsorption studies of Cr(VI) ions by ethylamine modified chitosan carbonized rice husk composite beads (EAM‐CCRCBs). The effect of process variables such as initial metal ion concentration, adsorbent dosage and pH were optimized using RSM in order to ensure high adsorption capacity at low adsorbent dosage and high initial metal ion concentration of Cr(VI) in batch process. The optimum condition suggested by the model for the process variable such as adsorbent dosage, pH and initial metal ion concentration was 0.14 g, 300 mg/L and pH2 with maximum removal of 99.8% and adsorption capacity of 52.7 mg/g respectively. Continuous adsorption studies were conducted under optimized initial metal ion concentration and pH for the removal of Cr(VI) ions using EAM‐CCRCBs. The breakthrough curve analysis was determined using the experimental data obtained from the continuous adsorption. Continuous adsorption modelling such as bed depth service model and Thomson model were established by fitting it with experimental data.