bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contingent rerouting for enhancing supply chain resilience from supplier behavior perspective
Authors: Wang Xinping , Herty Michael , Zhao Lindu
Published: February 2015

This paper examines contingent rerouting strategy for enhancing supply chain resilience taking a supplier's point of view. We consider a supply chain with multiple suppliers at each stage and establish a mathematical model for product allocation behavior among different suppliers. The allocation model is based on each supplier's production capacity, product quality, production cost, as well as possible decision maker's preferences. As a performance measure for rerouting strategy, we use the total outflow of the supply chain. We propose an optimization model and its solution determines the rerouting strategy for product flow through the supply chain under disruptions. Numerical examples demonstrate the effect of the rerouting strategy and show the resilience of the supply chain.
Efficacy of ablative fractional laser‐assisted photodynamic therapy with short‐incubation time for the treatment of facial and scalp actinic keratosis: 12‐month follow‐up results of a randomized, prospective, comparative trial
Authors: Choi S.H. , Kim K.H. , Song K.H.
Published: February 2015

Background

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) using methyl aminolevulinate (MAL) is an effective first‐line treatment for actinic keratosis (AK). Erbium:yttrium‐aluminium‐garnet (Er:YAG) ablative fractional laser‐assisted MAL‐PDT (AFL‐PDT) has shown significant benefit for the treatment of AK.

Objectives

The objectives of this study were to compare the efficacy, recurrence rate, cosmetic outcome and safety between AFL‐PDT with 2 and 3 h of incubation vs. Conventional MAL‐PDT in patients with facial and scalp AK.

Methods

This prospective randomized trial initially enrolled 440 facial and scalp AK lesions in 93 patients. Patients were randomly assigned to AFL‐PDT with a 2‐h incubation time (2h‐AFL‐PDT), 3h‐AFL‐PDT and 3h‐MAL‐PDT. All patients underwent one session of MAL‐PDT using a red light‐emitting diode lamp at 37 J/cm2, and AFL‐PDT groups were assigned to pretreatment with Er:YAG AFL. Patients were followed up at 1 week, 3 months and 12 months post treatment. Efficacy, cosmetic outcomes and adverse events were assessed. Finally, 427 facial AK lesions in 88 patients were analysed in this study.

Results

Three months after the last treatment session, 3h‐AFL‐PDT (91.7%) was significantly more effective than 2h‐AFL‐PDT (76.8%) and 3h‐MAL‐PDT (65.6%, P < 0.001), and differences in efficacy remained significant at the 12‐month follow‐up. The recurrence rate was significantly lower for 3h‐AFL‐PDT (7.5%) than for 3h‐MAL‐PDT (22.1%) at 12 months (P = 0.002);however, no significant difference was found between 2h‐AFL‐PDT and 3h‐MAL‐PDT. No significant difference was found in cosmetic outcomes or safety between the three groups.

Conclusions

We recommend 3h‐AFL‐PDT rather than classic MAL‐PDT or short‐incubation AFL‐PDT for treating AK.
Caring for patients during challenging clinical encounters
Authors: Marcum James A.
Published: February 2015

Rationale, aims and objectives

Challenging clinical encounters can often be frustrating and demoralizing not only for clinicians but also for patients. The paper's aims are twofold. The first is to analyse the nature and origins of such encounters. The second is to appraise the CALMER and REBELS models for managing them.

Methods

After reviewing the medical literature on challenging clinical encounters, a clinical case is briefly reconstructed from it. The reconstructed case is then used to analyse the nature and origins of challenging encounters and to evaluate the two models for handling them.

Results

The reconstructed clinical case is an apt example for examining and evaluating the medical literature on challenging clinical encounters. In terms of what challenging encounters are and what elicits them, the literature captures their frustrating, demoralizing, demanding and, at times, insufferable dimensions – as well as the role of patients in their origins – as the clinical case also illustrates. With respect to managing them, the CALMER and REBELS models are effective strategies for handling challenging encounters – again, as the clinical case exemplifies.

Conclusions

Although the clinical case supports the medical literature on challenging clinical encounters, the literature fails to provide an adequate account of their nature and origins. Specifically, challenging encounters are a type of dysfunction – not pathophysiological but existential – in a clinical setting, with their origins not only in patients but also in clinicians and health care systems. Finally, based upon the dysfunctional nature of such encounters, revisions of the CALMER and REBELS models are proposed for better managing these encounters.
Feasibility and diagnostic accuracy of teledermatology in Swiss primary care: process analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Tandjung Ryan , Badertscher Nina , Kleiner Nadine , Wensing Michel , Rosemann Thomas , Braun Ralph P. , Senn Oliver
Published: February 2015

Rationale, aim and objective

To test feasibility and diagnostic accuracy of dermatologist's feedback based on digital images of skin lesions collected in Swiss primary care.

Methods

This was a process analysis of a randomized controlled trial, conducted in 2011/2012. 30 of 78 general practitioners (GPs) were randomized to an intervention, which included dermatologist's feedback on digital images of skin lesions. Feedback was categorized into four categories: (1) no further investigation; (2) clinical observation; (3) biopsy; and (4) other. Histologic findings were allocated to the same categories. Feasibility was measured in the perspective of GPs concerning technical handling and of dermatologists as proportion of images usable for feedback. Diagnostic accuracy was measured as proportion of malignant histology of the first three feedback groups. No long‐term data was collected.

Results

981 images of skin lesions were collected, two were not eligible due to low quality of images. The majority of GPs (77.8%) reported no problem with the procedure. 207 images were in feedback category 1, 353 in 2, 360 in 3 and 59 in 4. A total of 236 histologic tests were collected. Three cases in category 1 indicated malignancy (1 melanoma). 201 of category 3 received a biopsy, where in 91 (45.3%) malignancy was confirmed.

Conclusion

Teledermatology with digital images taken in primary care was feasible from a GP and from a specialist perspective. However, diagnostic appropriateness regarding avoidance of specialist care and possible missed skin cancer raises concerns. These results therefore question a promotion of teledermatology in clinical routine.
pH preference and avoidance responses of adult brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis and brown trout Salmo trutta
Authors: Fost B. A. , Ferreri C. P.
Published: February 2015

The pH preferred and avoided by wild, adult brook trout Salvelinus fontinalis and brown trout Salmo trutta was examined in a series a laboratory tests using gradual and steep‐gradient flow‐through aquaria. The results were compared with those published for the observed segregation patterns of juvenile S. fontinalis and S. trutta in Pennsylvania streams. The adult S. trutta tested showed a preference for pH 4·0 while adult S. fontinalis did not prefer any pH within the range tested. Salmo trutta are not found in Pennsylvania streams with a base‐flow pH < 5·8 which suggests that S. trutta prefer pH well above 4·0. Adult S. trutta displayed a lack of avoidance at pH below 5·0, as also reported earlier for juveniles. The avoidance pH of wild, adult S. fontinalis (between pH 5·5 and 6·0) and S. trutta (between pH 6·5 and 7·0) did not differ appreciably from earlier study results for the avoidance pH of juvenile S. fontinalis and S. trutta. A comparison of c.i. around these avoidance estimates indicates that avoidance pH is similar among adult S. fontinalis and S. trutta in this study. The limited overlap of c.i. for avoidance pH values for the two species, however, suggests that some S. trutta will display avoidance at a higher pH when S. fontinalis will not. The results of this study indicate that segregation patterns of adult S. fontinalis and S. trutta in Pennsylvania streams could be related to pH and that competition with S. trutta could be mediating the occurrence of S. fontinalis at some pH levels.
Reducing Cancer Screening Disparities in Medicare Beneficiaries Through Cancer Patient Navigation
Authors: Braun Kathryn L. , Thomas William L. , Domingo Jermy‐Leigh B. , Allison Amanda L. , Ponce Avette , Haunani Kamakana P. , Brazzel Sandra S. , Emmett Aluli N. , Tsark JoAnn U.
Published: February 2015

Significant racial disparities in cancer mortality are seen between Medicare beneficiaries. A randomized controlled trial tested the use of lay navigators (care managers) to increase cancer screening of Asian and Pacific Islander Medicare beneficiaries. The study setting was Moloka‘i General Hospital on the island of Moloka‘i, Hawai‘i, which was one of six sites participating in the Cancer Prevention and Treatment Demonstration sponsored by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Between 2006 and 2009, 488 Medicare beneficiaries (45% Hawaiian, 35% Filipino, 11% Japanese, 8% other) were randomized to have a navigator help them access cancer screening services (experimental condition, n = 242) or cancer education (control condition, n = 246). Self‐reported data on screening participation were collected at baseline and exit from the study, and differences were tested using chi‐square. Groups were similar in demographic characteristics and baseline screening prevalence of breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancers. At study exit, 57.0% of women in the experimental arm and 36.4% of controls had had a Papanicolaou test in the past 24 months (P = .001), 61.7% of women in the experimental arm and 42.4% of controls had had a mammogram in the past 12 months (P = .003), 54.4% of men in the experimental arm and 36.0% of controls had had a prostate‐specific antigen test in the past 12 months (P = .008), and 43.0% of both sexes in the experimental arm and 27.2% of controls had had a flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy in the past 5 years (P < .001). Findings suggest that navigation services can increase cancer screening in Medicare beneficiaries in groups with significant disparities.
Contact X‐ray microscopy of living cells by using LiF crystal as imaging detector
Authors: REALE L. , BONFIGLI F. , LAI A. , FLORA F. , ALBERTANO P. , DI GIORGIO M. L. , MEZI L. , MONTEREALI R.M. , FAENOV A. , PIKUZ T. , ALMAVIVA S. , FRANCUCCI M. , GAUDIO P. , MARTELLUCCI S. , RICHETTA M. , POMA A.
Published: February 2015

In this paper, the use of lithium fluoride (LiF) as imaging radiation detector to analyse living cells by single‐shot soft X‐ray contact microscopy is presented. High resolved X‐ray images on LiF of cyanobacterium Leptolyngbya VRUC135, two unicellular microalgae of the genus Chlamydomonas and mouse macrophage cells (line RAW 264.7) have been obtained utilizing X‐ray radiation in the water window energy range from a laser plasma source. The used method is based on loading of the samples, the cell suspension, in a special holder where they are in close contact with a LiF crystal solid‐state X‐ray imaging detector. After exposure and sample removal, the images stored in LiF by the soft X‐ray contact microscopy technique are read by an optical microscope in fluorescence mode. The clear image of the mucilaginous sheath the structure of the filamentous Leptolyngbya and the visible nucleolus in the macrophage cells image, are noteworthiness results. The peculiarities of the used X‐ray radiation and of the LiF imaging detector allow obtaining images in absorption contrast revealing the internal structures of the investigated samples at high spatial resolution. Moreover, the wide dynamic range of the LiF imaging detector contributes to obtain high‐quality images. In particular, we demonstrate that this peculiar characteristic of LiF detector allows enhancing the contrast and reveal details even when they were obscured by a nonuniform stray light.
Marital Conflict and Emotional Insecurity Among Chinese Adolescents: Cultural Value Moderation
Authors: Li Yan , Cheung Rebecca Y. M. , Cummings E. Mark
Published: February 2015

Emotional security theory has received substantial empirical support in the literature. However, the applicability of this theory in diverse cultures is still unclear. This study examined emotional insecurity among Chinese adolescents (N = 315) and how social harmony values moderated the association between parental conflict tactics (233 mothers; 224 fathers) and adolescents' emotional insecurity. Results showed that emotional insecurity could be reliably measured among Chinese adolescents. Furthermore, a significant moderation showed that paternal conflict tactics were associated with adolescents' emotional insecurity only when they endorsed higher social harmony. In the maternal model, an overall association between maternal conflict tactics and adolescents' emotional insecurity was observed. The current findings enrich the literature on emotional security in diverse ecological contexts.
Genetic association studies of obesity in Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Yako Y. Y. , Echouffo‐Tcheugui J. B. , Balti E. V. , Matsha T. E. , Sobngwi E. , Erasmus R. T. , Kengne A. P.
Published: February 2015

Obesity is increasing in Africa, but the underlying genetic background largely remains unknown. We assessed existing evidence on genetic determinants of obesity among populations within Africa. MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched and the bibliographies of retrieved articles were examined. Included studies had to report on the association of a genetic marker with obesity indices and the presence/occurrence of obesity/obesity trait. Data were extracted on study design and characteristics, genetic determinants and effect estimates of associations with obesity indices. According to this data, over 300 polymorphisms in 42 genes have been studied in various population groups within Africa mostly through the candidate gene approach. Polymorphisms in genes such as ACE, ADIPOQ, ADRB2, AGRP, AR, CAPN10, CD36, C7orf31, DRD4, FTO, MC3R, MC4R, SGIP1 and LEP were found to be associated with various measures of obesity. Of the 36 polymorphisms previously validated by genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) elsewhere, only FTO and MC4R polymorphisms showed significant associations with obesity in black South Africans, Nigerians and Ghanaians. However, these data are insufficient to establish the true nature of genetic susceptibility to obesity in populations within Africa. There has been recent progress in describing the genetic architecture of obesity among populations within Africa. This effort needs to be sustained via GWAS studies.
Total Pragmatic Encroachment and Epistemic Permissiveness
Authors: Rubin Katherine
Published: February 2015

This article explores the relationship between pragmatic encroachment and epistemic permissiveness. If the suggestion that all epistemic notions are interest‐relative is viable (as Jason Stanley has recently claimed), then it seems that a certain species of epistemic permissivism must be viable as well. For, if all epistemic notions are interest relative then, sometimes, parties in paradigmatic cases of shared evidence can be maximally rational in forming competing basic doxastic attitudes towards the same proposition. However, I argue that this total pragmatic encroachment is not tenable, and, thus, epistemic permissivism cannot be vindicated in this way.
Genetic Determinants of Leucocyte Telomere Length in Children: a Neglected and Challenging Field
Authors: Stathopoulou Maria G. , Petrelis Alexandros M. , Buxton Jessica L. , Froguel Philippe , Blakemore Alexandra I. F. , Visvikis‐Siest Sophie
Published: February 2015

Background

Telomere length is associated with a large range of human diseases. Genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) have identified genetic variants that are associated with leucocyte telomere length (LTL). However, these studies are limited to adult populations. Nevertheless, childhood is a crucial period for the determination of LTL, and the assessment of age‐specific genetic determinants, although neglected, could be of great importance. Our aim was to provide insights and preliminary results on genetic determinants of LTL in children.

Methods

Healthy children (n = 322, age range = 6.75–17 years) with available GWAS data (Illumina Human CNV370‐Duo array) were included. The LTL was measured using multiplex quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Linear regression models adjusted for age, gender, parental age at child's birth, and body mass index were used to test the associations of LTL with polymorphisms identified in adult GWAS and to perform a discovery‐only GWAS.

Results

The previously GWAS‐identified variants in adults were not associated with LTL in our paediatric sample. This lack of association was not due to possible interactions with age or gene × gene interactions. Furthermore, a discovery‐only GWAS approach demonstrated six novel variants that reached the level of suggestive association (P ≤ 5 × 10−5) and explain a high percentage of children's LTL.

Conclusions

The study of genetic determinants of LTL in children may identify novel variants not previously identified in adults. Studies in large‐scale children populations are needed for the confirmation of these results, possibly through a childhood consortium that could better handle the methodological challenges of LTL genetic epidemiology field.
The Aggregation of Expert Judgment: Do Good Things Come to Those Who Weight?
Authors: Cooke Roger M.
Published: February 2015

This responds to an “evaluation” of the classical model for structured expert judgment by Bolger and Rowe in this issue. This response references extensive expert judgment performance data in the public domain which played no role in their evaluation.
Increased Antifungal Antibodies in Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid and Serum in Pulmonary Sarcoidosis
Authors: Suchankova M. , Paulovicova E. , Paulovicova L. , Majer I. , Tedlova E. , Novosadova H. , Tibenska E. , Tedla M. , Bucova M.
Published: February 2015

The recent studies suggest a role of fungi in development of sarcoidosis. Moreover, the immune response in sarcoidosis and fungal infection shows a striking similarity. We formulated a hypothesis of the possible increase in antifungal antibodies in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and serum in pulmonary sarcoidosis. BALF and serum levels of IgG‐, IgM‐ and IgA‐specific antibodies against the cell wall β‐D‐glucan and mannan of Candida albicans and Saccharomyces cerevisiae were tested in 47 patients (29 pulmonary sarcoidosis patients and 18 patients with other interstitial lung diseases (ILD – control group)) and 170 healthy controls. Our results proved: (1) an increase in IgG‐, IgM‐ and IgA‐specific antifungal antibodies in BALF in pulmonary sarcoidosis compared with the control group (C. albicans: IgG: P = 0.0329, IgM: P = 0.0076, IgA: P = 0.0156; S. cerevisiae: IgG: P = 0.0062, IgM: P = 0.0367, IgA: P = 0.0095) and (2) elevated levels of serum antifungal antibodies in pulmonary sarcoidosis compared with healthy controls (C. albicans: IgG: P = 0.0329, IgM: P = 0.0076, IgA: P = 0.0156; S. cerevisiae: IgG: P > 0.05, IgM: P < 0.05, IgA: P < 0.001). The study showed increased serum and BALF levels of antifungal antibodies in pulmonary sarcoidosis. The hypothesis that fungal infection is one of the possible aetiologic agents of sarcoidosis is interesting and deserves further attention.
New analysis methods for skin fine‐structure via optical image and development of 3D skin Cycloscan™
Authors: Han J. Y. , Nam G. W. , Lee H. K. , Kim M. J. , Kim E. J.
Published: February 2015

Background/Purpose

This study was conducted to develop methods for measuring skin fine‐structure via optical image and apparatus for photographing to analyze efficacy of anti‐aging.

Methods

We developed an apparatus named 3D Skin CycloScan™ to evaluate the efficacy of cosmetics by imagification of skin fine‐structure such as wrinkles, pores, and skin texture. The semi‐sphere shaped device has 12 different sequential flashing light sources captures optical image simultaneously in one second to exclude the influence of the subject's movement. The normal map that is extracted through shape from shading method is composed of face contour and skin fine‐structure parts. When the low‐frequency component which is the result of the Gaussian Filter application is eliminated, we can get only skin fine‐structure. In this normal map, it is possible to extract two‐dimensional vector map called direction map and we can regulate the intensity of the image of wrinkles, pores, and skin texture after filtering the direction map. We performed a clinical study to apply this new apparatus and methods to evaluate an anti‐aging efficacy of cosmetics visually and validate with other conventional methods.

Results

After using anti‐aging cream including 2% adenosine for 8 weeks, the total amount of fine wrinkle around eye area detected via 3D Skin CycloScan™ was reduced by 12.1%. Also, wrinkles on crow's feet measured by PRIMOS COMPACT® (GFMesstechnik GmbH, Germany) reduced 11.7%.

Conclusion

According to an aspect of the present study, by changing the direction of the lights toward to subject's skin, we can obtain the information about the fine structures present on the skin such as wrinkles, pores, or skin texture and represent it as an image.
Absence of giant blood Marseille‐like virus DNA detection by polymerase chain reaction in plasma from healthy US blood donors and serum from multiply transfused patients from Cameroon
Authors: Phan Tung Gia , Desnues Christelle , Switzer William M. , Djoko Cyrille F. , Schneider Bradley S. , Deng Xutao , Delwart Eric
Published: February 2015

BACKGROUND

A new Marseilleviridae virus family member, giant blood Marseille‐like (GBM) virus, was recently reported in persons from France in the serum of an infant with adenitis, in the blood of 4% of healthy blood donors, and in 9% of multiply transfused thalassemia patients. These results suggested the presence of a nucleocytoplasmic large DNA virus potentially transmissible by blood product transfusion.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

To investigate this possibility we tested the plasma from 113 US blood donors and 74 multiply transfused Cameroon patients for GBM viral DNA using highly sensitive polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays.

RESULTS

GBM DNA was not detected by nested PCR in any of these 187 human specimens.

CONCLUSIONS

Further testing is required to confirm the occurrence of human GBM virus infections.
Analysis and Simulation of an Oil Lubrication Pump for Internal Combustion Engines
Authors: Frosina Emma , Senatore Adolfo , Buono Dario , Santato Luca
Published: February 2015

This paper presents a simulation model of an oil-lubrication gerotor pump for internal combustion engines. The model was constructed by using a monodimensional commercial code that accounted for all phenomena that occur during the revolution of the pump shaft. Several geometric considerations and theoretical observations are presented. An experiment was also performed to validate the simulation model. In these experimental tests, particular attention was paid to the behavior of the pressure oscillations during the pump shaft revolutions. The final aim of this activity is to obtain an instrument that allows the in-depth analysis of the functioning of the pump and lubrication circuit. Additionally, this instrument can be coupled with other models (e.g., variable valve actuation (VVA) and variable valve timing (VVT)) to account for different problems experienced by the hydraulic components of engines.
Mass spectrometric metabolomic imaging of biofilms on corroding steel surfaces using laser ablation and solvent capture by aspiration
Authors: Brauer Jonathan I. , Makama Zakari , Bonifay Vincent , Aydin Egemen , Kaufman Eric D. , Beech Iwona B. , Sunner Jan
Published: February 2015

Ambient laser ablation and solvent capture by aspiration (LASCA) mass spectrometric imaging was combined with metabolomics high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) mass spectrometry analysis and light profilometry to investigate the correlation between chemical composition of marine bacterial biofilms on surfaces of 1018 carbon steel and corrosion damage of steel underneath the biofilms. Pure cultures of Marinobacter sp. or a wild population of bacteria present in coastal seawater served as sources of biofilms. Profilometry data of biofilm-free surfaces demonstrated heterogeneous distributions of corrosion damage. LASCA data were correlated with areas on the coupons varying in the level of corrosion attack, to reveal differences in chemical composition within biofilm regions associated with corroding and corrosion-free zones. Putative identification of selected compounds was carried out based on HPLC results and subsequent database searches. This is the first report of successful ambient chemical and metabolomic imaging of marine biofilms on corroding metallic materials. The metabolic analysis of such biofilms is challenging due to the presence in the biofilm of large amounts of corrosion products. However, by using the LASCA imaging interface, images of more than 1000 ions (potential metabolites) are generated, revealing striking heterogeneities within the biofilm. In the two model systems studied here, it is found that some of the patterns observed in selected ion images closely correlate with the occurrence and extent of corrosion in the carbon steel substrate as revealed by profilometry, while others do not. This approach toward the study of microbially influenced corrosion (MIC) holds great promise for approaching a fundamental understanding of the mechanisms involved in MIC.
Targeting mitochondria in cancer cells using gold nanoparticle‐enhanced radiotherapy: A Monte Carlo study
Authors: Kirkby Charles , Ghasroddashti Esmaeel
Published: February 2015

Purpose:

Radiation damage to mitochondria has been shown to alter cellular processes and even lead to apoptosis. Gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) may be used to enhance these effects in scenarios where they collect on the outer membranes of mitochondria. A Monte Carlo (MC) approach is used to estimate mitochondrial dose enhancement under a variety of conditions.

Methods:

The penelope MC code was used to generate dose distributions resulting from photons striking a 13 nm diameter AuNP with various thicknesses of water‐equivalent coatings. Similar dose distributions were generated with the AuNP replaced by water so as to estimate the gain in dose on a microscopic scale due to the presence of AuNPs within an irradiated volume. Models of mitochondria with AuNPs affixed to their outer membrane were then generated—considering variation in mitochondrial size and shape, number of affixed AuNPs, and AuNP coating thickness—and exposed (in a dose calculation sense) to source spectra ranging from 6 MV to 90 kVp. Subsequently dose enhancement ratios (DERs), or the dose with the AuNPs present to that for no AuNPs, for the entire mitochondrion and its components were tallied under these scenarios.

Results:

For a representative case of a 1000 nm diameter mitochondrion affixed with 565 AuNPs, each with a 13 nm thick coating, the mean DER over the whole organelle ranged from roughly 1.1 to 1.6 for the kilovoltage sources, but was generally less than 1.01 for the megavoltage sources. The outer membrane DERs remained less than 1.01 for the megavoltage sources, but rose to 2.3 for 90 kVp. The voxel maximum DER values were as high as 8.2 for the 90 kVp source and increased further when the particles clustered together. The DER exhibited dependence on the mitochondrion dimensions, number of AuNPs, and the AuNP coating thickness.

Conclusions:

Substantial dose enhancement directly to the mitochondria can be achieved under the conditions modeled. If the mitochondrion dose can be directly enhanced, as these simulations show, this work suggests the potential for both a tool to study the role of mitochondria in cellular response to radiation and a novel avenue for radiation therapy in that the mitochondria may be targeted, rather than the nuclear DNA.
The Effect of a Six-Month Dancing Program on Motor-Cognitive Dual-Task Performance in Older Adults
Authors: Hamacher Dennis , Hamacher Daniel , Rehfeld Kathrin , Hökelmann Anita , Schega Lutz
Published: February 2015

Dancing is a complex sensorimotor activity involving physical and mental elements which have positive effects on cognitive functions and motor control. The present randomized controlled trial aims to analyze the effects of a dancing program on the performance on a motorcognitive dual task. Data of 35 older adults, who were assigned to a dancing group or a health-related exercise group, are presented in the study. In pretest and posttest, we assessed cognitive performance and variability of minimum foot clearance, stride time, and stride length while walking. Regarding the cognitive performance and the stride-to-stride variability of minimum foot clearance, interaction effects have been found, indicating that dancing lowers gait variability to a higher extent than conventional health-related exercise. The data show that dancing improves minimum foot clearance variability and cognitive performance in a dual-task situation. Multi-task exercises (like dancing) might be a powerful tool to improve motor-cognitive dual-task performance.
Effect of an Eight-Week Ballroom Dancing Program on Muscle Architecture in Older Adult Females
Authors: Cepeda Christina C.P. , Lodovico Angélica , Fowler Neil , Rodacki André L.F.
Published: February 2015

Aging is related to a progressive remodeling of the neuromuscular system, which includes muscle mass, strength, and power reductions. This study investigated the effect of an eight-week dance program on fascicle pennation angle, fascicle length, and thickness of the vastus lateralis (VL), tibialis anterior (TA), biceps femoris (BF), and gastrocnemius medialis (GM) muscles using ultrasound images. Thirty-four healthy older women were randomly assigned to either a dancing (DG: n = 19, 69.1 ± 6.5 years, 72.5 ± 11.7 kg) or control group (CG: n = 15, 71.5 ± 7.4 years, 70.9 ± 9.3 kg). After training, the DG showed greater (p < .05) thickness for VL (16%), TA (17%), BF (19%), and GM (15%); pennation angle for VL (21%), TA (23%), BF (21%), and GM (17%); and fascicle length for VL (11%), TA (12%), BF (10%), and GM (10%). These findings suggest that dance training was effective to change the lower limb muscle architecture in older female adults.
Physical Activity Alone May Enhance Health But It May Not Reduce Disability in Chronic Stroke Survivors
Authors: Whitall Jill
Published: February 2015

In this paper, I argue that physical activity in the form of exercise provides wonderful health benefits for individuals with chronic stroke but fails to also reduce the wider effects of disability for these individuals. The argument proceeds first with a definition of terms, including the classification framework of health and disability according to the World Health Organization. Next follows a section on stroke, its prevalence, and major motor symptoms, including health status. The subsequent two sections include evidence for the health benefits of exercise and lack of evidence for the reduction of disability. The penultimate section expands upon the direction of research that should move us toward reducing disability. The final section concludes on how kinesiology fits into a model for improving both health and reducing disability for chronic stroke survivors.
The Nexus of Rehabilitation and Exercise: Where and Why the Two Shall Meet
Authors: Rimmer James H.
Published: February 2015

People with newly acquired and existing disability have one of the highest rates of physical inactivity compared with any other subgroup in the United States. For more than 50 million Americans with disabilities, lack of regular exercise increases their risk for developing the health problems associated with a sedentary lifestyle. Professionals in rehabilitation and exercise science must join forces in promoting higher levels of physical activity among people with newly acquired or existing disability after they are discharged from rehabilitation. Establishing a strong and cohesive relationship between rehabilitation providers and exercise professionals at the ‘infection point’ when rehabilitation ends and sustainable exercise must begin will capture individual awareness and knowledge of how and why extending the recovery process into community-based exercise facilities has substantial potential for improving their health and quality of life.
Determinants of Elite Disability Sport Performance
Authors: Martin Jeffrey J.
Published: February 2015

In the last 10-20 years sport psychologists have started to emphasize the value of mental strengths such as self-confidence for disability sport athletes (Martin, 2012). The pinnacle of disability sport competition, the Paralympics, is becoming increasingly competitive, suggesting a strong need for athletes to possess effective mental skills. Like the Olympics there is intense pressure to win at the Paralympics. In the current review article I discuss the body of knowledge in sport psychology that focuses on potential direct and indirect determinants of performance in elite disability sport. The review is organized around a personnel developmental model used by Martin (1999, 2005, 2012). This model is a humanistic model and revolves around foundation qualities, psychological methods and skills, and facilitative and debilitative factors. The premise of the model is also similar to McCann's sentiment that “at the Olympics [Paralympics], everything is a performance issue” (2008, p. 267).
Analgesic Effect of Electroacupuncture on Paclitaxel-Induced Neuropathic Pain via Spinal Opioidergic and Adrenergic Mechanisms in Mice
Authors: Choi Jung-Wan , Kang Suk-Yun , Choi Jae-Gyun , Kang Dong-Wook , Kim Soo-Jin , Lee Sang Do , Park Jin Bong , Ryu Yeon-Hee , Kim Hyun-Woo
Published: February 2015

This study was designed to determine the antinociceptive effect and related neuronal mechanism of electroacupuncture (EA) on paclitaxel (PTX)-induced neuropathic pain in mice. PTX (4 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered once a day for 5 consecutive days to induce neuropathic pain. EA stimulation (2 mA, 2 Hz, 30 min) was applied at the ST36 acupoint bilaterally once in every 2 days. Repeated EA stimulation significantly attenuated PTX-induced mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia. In a separate set of experiment, the antinociceptive effect of a single EA stimulation 8 days after PTX treatment was reduced by intrathecal pretreatment with naloxone (opioid receptor antagonist), idazoxan (alpha2-adrenoceptor antagonist) or propranolol (beta-adrenoceptor antagonist), but not prazosin (alpha1-adrenoceptor antagonist). Moreover, EA remarkably suppressed the PTX-enhanced phosphorylation of the NMDA receptor NR2B subunit in the spinal dorsal horn, and intrathecal pretreatment of naloxone, idazoxan (IDA) or propranolol blocked the effect of EA. In conclusion, EA stimulation at the ST36 acupoint significantly diminished PTX-induced neuropathic pain in mice via the mediation of spinal opioid receptor, alpha2- and beta-adrenoceptors.
A Series of New Chaotic Attractors via Switched Linear Integer Order and Fractional Order Differential Equations
Authors: Xu Fei , Cressman Ross , Shu Xiao-Bao , Liu Xinzhi
Published: February 2015

This article investigates the design of a series of new chaotic attractors. A switching control with different switching surfaces is designed to link two systems of linear integer order differential equations. Under such control, the linked systems have rich dynamical behaviors such as chaos. We also investigate the dynamical behaviors of the corresponding linear fractional order differential equation systems with switching controls. It is shown that such fractional order systems have chaotic behaviors as well.
A prime decomposition theorem for the 2-string link monoid
Authors: Blair Ryan , Burke John , Koytcheff Robin
Published: February 2015

In this paper we use 3-manifold techniques to illuminate the structure of the string link monoid. In particular, we give a prime decomposition theorem for string links on two components as well as give necessary conditions for string links to commute under the stacking operation.
Knowledge Flow Determinants of Patent Value: Evidence from Taiwan and South Korea Biotechnology Patents
Authors: Wang Ming-Yeu , Lo Hsien-Chen , Liao Yu-Yin
Published: February 2015

Patents are important knowledge assets that enable firms to compete successfully and earn returns. To control spending on patent renewal fees, firms carefully analyze the value of their patents to determine whether patent rights need to be maintained, thereby rendering renewal decisions an opportunity to examine patent values. This study incorporates social network analysis and traditional patent indicators to empirically investigate the determinants affecting patent valuation by firms and research institutes in the Taiwanese and South Korean biotechnology industries. Results indicate that firms and research institutes value their patents differently. Certain indicators derived from knowledge flow and traditional patent indicators significantly affect patent value. Based on the findings, this study provides suggestions for policy-making.
FROM CREATIVE INDIVIDUALS TO CREATIVE CAPITAL: VALUE CREATION AND APPROPRIATION STRATEGIES OF CREATIVE KNOWLEDGE-INTENSIVE BUSINESS SERVICES
Authors: DELL'ERA CLAUDIO , LANDONI PAOLO , VERGANTI ROBERTO
Published: February 2015

In the increasingly knowledge-based economy, the role of the service sector, and in particular, of Knowledge Intensive Business Services (KIBS), is widely acknowledged. KIBS are considered 'bridges of innovation'. Furthermore, in addition to this pivotal role in supporting the competitiveness and development of other firms, KIBS sectors are, per se, increasingly relevant in terms of economic dimensions and employment. Creative KIBS span architecture, advertising, multimedia and internet applications, branding, design agencies, etc and leverage creative processes and creative individuals. The importance of these firms is directly related to the increasingly acknowledged role of creativity and innovation for competitiveness. In fact, while some KIBS have grown to significant sizes in the creative sector (e.g., IDEO and Continuum Innovation), normally, these firms fail to grow and consist of only the founding professionals and a limited number of close collaborators. As argued by Florida and Goodnight (2005), the company's most important asset is its creative capital and this is not just a collection of individuals' ideas, but a product of interaction. This paper relies on a sample of eight Italian creative KIBS to analyse the value creation and appropriation strategies adopted by companies that were able to transform their creative capabilities from an individual asset to a company one (creative capital). On the basis of a theoretical framework that is derived from the literature and based on three pillars (Unique Assets Development, Unique Assets, and Unique Assets Value Appropriation), we identify several peculiar assets and strategies that are adopted by creative KIBS. Furthermore, we highlight the importance of Unique Asset Embodiment strategies, i.e., the importance of strategies for formalizing and codifying the unique assets in specific technologies, archives, processes, and even products. We show that these strategies allow (i) to extract more value from the already adopted value appropriation strategies and (ii) to adopt specific strategies of value appropriation.
Switching the Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance of Single Gold Nanorods with a Phase-Change Material and the Implementation of a Cellular Automata Algorithm Using a Plasmon Particle Array
Authors: Hira Takashi , Uchiyama Takayuki , Kuwamura Kenta , Kihara Yuya , Yawatari Tasuku , Saiki Toshiharu
Published: February 2015

We investigate the modulation of the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) of a gold nanorod (AuNR) using a GeSbTe film as an active medium. We demonstrate high-contrast switching of LSPR in an AuNR/GST/Au thin film sandwich structure upon phase change. To go beyond this single-particle switching functionality, we consider a plasmon particle system interacting with a phase-change material (PCM) to discuss the possibility of parallel processing devices with memory functionality, exploiting the plasticity and threshold behavior that are inherent characteristics of PCMs. We demonstrate that the temporal and spatial evolution of a plasmon-PCM array system can be equivalent to a cellular automata algorithm.
Medical Acute Complications of Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Young Adults
Authors: Koivunen Riku-Jaakko , Haapaniemi Elena , Satopää Jarno , Niemelä Mika , Tatlisumak Turgut , Putaala Jukka
Published: February 2015

Background.Frequency and impact of medical complications on short-term mortality in young patients with intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) have gone unstudied.Methods.We reviewed data of all first-ever nontraumatic ICH patients between 16 and 49 years of age treated in our hospital between January 2000 and March 2010 to identify medical complications suffered. Logistic regression adjusted for known ICH prognosticators was used to identify medical complications associated with mortality.Results.Among the 325 eligible patients (59% males, median age 42 [interquartile range 34–47] years), infections were discovered in 90 (28%), venous thrombotic events in 13 (4%), cardiac complications in 4 (1%), renal failure in 59 (18%), hypoglycemia in 15 (5%), hyperglycemia in 165 (51%), hyponatremia in 146 (45%), hypernatremia in 91 (28%), hypopotassemia in 104 (32%), and hyperpotassemia in 27 (8%). Adjusted for known ICH prognosticators and diabetes, the only independent complication associated with 3-month mortality was hyperglycemia (plasma glucose >8.0 mmol/L) (odds ratio: 5.90, 95% confidence interval: 2.25–15.48,P<0.001). Three or more separate complications suffered also associated with increased mortality (7.76, 1.42–42.49,P=0.018).Conclusions.Hyperglycemia is a frequent complication of ICH in young adults and is independently associated with increased mortality. However, multiple separate complications increase mortality even further.
Reversal of Multidrug Resistance by the Chinese Medicine Yiqi Jianpi Huaji Decoction and the Mechanism of Action in Human Gastric Cancer SGC7901/VCR Cells
Authors: Li Wei-Bing , Li Yang , Yu Chen , He Yong-Ming
Published: February 2015

Yiqi Jianpi Huaji Decoction (YJHD), a traditional Chinese medicinal formula composed of twelve ingredients, has recently been reported to have a good clinical curative effect. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of YJHD on SGC7901/VCR gastric cancer cells and to elucidate the possible mechanism of action. First, the effects of a low dose of YJHD in combination with chemotherapeutic agents on SGC7901/VCR cells were assessed using the CCK-8 assay and flow cytometry, and the effects of YJHD on genes and proteins involved in drug resistance (MDR1, MRP, TUBB3, STMN1, and TS) were evaluated. Furthermore, transfection of SGC7901/VCR cells with siRNAs targeting these genes inhibited their expression, and the efficacy of vincristine against the cells was dramatically improved in vitro when these genes were silenced. These results demonstrate that low-dose YJHD inhibited cell proliferation, induced apoptosis, reversed MDR, and increased sensitivity to chemotherapeutic agents in vitro by downregulating P-gp, MRP, TUBB3, and STMN1 expression. MDR can be reversed by siRNAs targeting genes involved in MDR, and this strategy for cancer treatment should be evaluated in future studies.
Nasal Bridge Intramuscular Hemangioma
Authors: Hamir Basah Zulkifli , Mohamad Irfan , Ramza Ramli Ramiza , Gayadh Maha Khadum , Mutum Samarendra Singh
Published: February 2015

Intramuscular haemangioma (IMH) is a benign mesenchymal tumour. It appears as a deep, nontender mass within the soft tissue, particularly in the extremities. This tumour may not be obvious on clinical examination. Head and neck IMHs represent only 13.5% of the total IMHs. The most common site for a head and neck IMH is the masseter muscle, followed by trapezius, sternocleidomastoid, and very rarely temporalis muscle. We present a patient with left nasal bridge swelling which was excised and histologically confirmed as intramuscular hemangioma.
Connection Formulae between Ellipsoidal and Spherical Harmonics with Applications to Fluid Dynamics and Electromagnetic Scattering
Authors: Doschoris Michael , Vafeas Panayiotis
Published: February 2015

The environment of the ellipsoidal system, significantly more complex than the spherical one, provides the necessary settings for tackling boundary value problems in anisotropic space. However, the theory of Lamé functions and ellipsoidal harmonics affiliated with the ellipsoidal system is rather complicated. A turning point would reside in the existence of expressions interlacing these two different systems. Still, there is no simple way, if at all, to bridge the gap. The present paper addresses this issue. We provide explicit formulas of specific ellipsoidal harmonics expressed in terms of their counterparts in the classical spherical system. These expressions are then put into practice in the framework of physical applications.
Congenital Portosystemic Shunt: Our Experience
Authors: Timpanaro Tiziana , Passanisi Stefano , Sauna Alessandra , Trombatore Claudia , Pennisi Monica , Petrillo Giuseppe , Smilari Pierluigi , Greco Filippo
Published: February 2015

Introduction. Congenital portosystemic venous malformations are rare abnormalities in which the portal blood drains into a systemic vein and which are characterized by extreme clinical variability.Case Presentations. The authors present two case reports of a congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (Type II). In the first patient, apparently nonspecific symptoms, such as headache and fatigue, proved to be secondary to hypoglycemic episodes related to the presence of a portosystemic shunt, later confirmed on imaging. During portal vein angiography, endovascular embolization of the portocaval fistula achieved occlusion of the anomalous venous tract. In the second patient, affected by Down’s syndrome, the diagnosis of a portosystemic malformation was made by routine ultrasonography, performed to rule out concurrent congenital anomalies. Because of the absence of symptoms, we chose to observe this patient.Conclusions. These two case reports demonstrate the clinical heterogeneity of this malformation and the need for a multidisciplinary approach. As part of a proper workup, clinical evaluation must always be followed by radiographic diagnosis.