bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Role of Acupuncture in the Management of Diabetic Painful Neuropathy (Dpn): A Pilot Rct
Authors: Garrow Adam P , Xing Mei , Vere Joanne , Verrall Barbara , Wang LiFen , Jude Edward B
Published: March 2014

Aims

To examine the role of acupuncture in the treatment of diabetic painful neuropathy (DPN) using a single-blind, placebo-controlled RCT and to collect data that would be required in a future definitive study of the efficacy of acupuncture in DPN.

Methods

45 patients were allocated to receive a 10-week course either of real (53%) or sham (47%) acupuncture. Five standardised acupuncture points on the lower limb of each leg were used in the study: LR3, KI3, SP6, SP10 and ST36. Outcome measures included the Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) scale, lower limb pain (Visual Analogue Scale, VAS); Sleep Problem Scale (SPS); Measure Yourself Medical Outcome Profile (MYMOP); 36-item Short Form 36 Health Survey and resting blood pressure (BP).

Results

Over the 10-week treatment period, small improvements were seen in VAS −15 (−26 to −3.5), MYMOP −0.89 (−1.4 to −0.3), SPS −2.5 (−4.2 to −0.82) and resting diastolic BP −5.2 (−10.4 to −0.14) in the true acupuncture group. In contrast, there was little change in those receiving sham acupuncture. A moderate treatment effect in favour of active acupuncture was detected in MYMOP scores −0.66 (−0.96 to −0.35) but non-significant effect sizes in LANSS Pain Scale −0.37 (−2.2 to 1.4), resting diastolic BP −0.50 (−3.0 to 1.99) and the SPS −0.51 (−2.2 to 1.16).

Conclusions

We have demonstrated the practicality and feasibility of acupuncture as an additional treatment for people with DPN. The treatment was well tolerated with no appreciable side effects. Larger randomised trials are needed to confirm the clinical and cost-effectiveness of acupuncture in the treatment of DPN.

Trial Registration Number

ISRCTN number: 39740785.
Perforated jejunal diverticulum: a rare presentation of acute abdomen
Authors: Kavanagh Crystal , Kaoutzanis Christodoulos , Spoor Kristen , Friedman Paul F
Published: March 2014

Jejunal diverticulosis is a rare entity with a reported clinical incidence of 0.5%. However, symptoms relating to its presence are non-specific, which does not only delay diagnosis, but also increases the risk of serious complications approaching 15%. We report a case of perforated jejunal diverticulum presented with a 6-month history of significant weight loss and acute abdominal pain. We discuss clinical presentation in both simple and complex cases, diagnostic pitfalls and management strategies.
Radioactive seed localisation to guide removal of impalpable lymph nodes (Radioguided Occult Lesion Localisation using Iodine-125 seeds, “ROLLIS”)
Authors: Jackson Lee , Bourke Anita Geraldine , Abdul Aziz Farah , Taylor Donna
Published: March 2014

Two patients with cancer requiring removal of specific impalpable lymph nodes for full pathological analysis underwent ultrasound-guided lesion localisation and marking with a low-activity I-125 seed. A gamma probe was used in theatre to localise the signal from the seed and guide excision. Successful removal of the lesions was confirmed with the probe and by specimen radiography. Radioguided Occult Lesion Localisation using I-125 Seeds (“ROLLIS”) provides a method of precisely marking impalpable lesions for surgical excision.
Large retroperitoneal low-grade extraskeletal osteosarcoma
Authors: Jaipuria Jiten , Kumar Ashok , Rao Adla Satyanarayan , Kataria Satya Pal
Published: March 2014

Low-grade extraskeletal osteosarcoma is an extremely rare neoplasm with only nine cases reported in the literature, in which only one case involved the retroperitoneum. Tendency to dedifferentiate as well as recur with high-grade variant is known and management principles are not well defined, necessitating a continuous review of literature. We report management of the largest such retroperitoneal tumour (18.0 cm× 18.3 cm×17.8 cm) in a 38-year-old man, which was treated with surgery followed by six cycles of cisplatin (90 mg/m2days 1 and 2) and doxorubicin (75 mg/m2day 3), cycled every 3 weeks (with granulocyte colony stimulating factor support as necessary). The patient is disease free after 3 years of follow-up.
Built environment characteristics and parent active transportation are associated with active travel to school in youth age 12–15
Authors: Carlson Jordan A , Sallis James F , Kerr Jacqueline , Conway Terry L , Cain Kelli , Frank Lawrence D , Saelens Brian E
Published: March 2014

Purpose

To investigate the relation of factors from multiple levels of ecological models (ie, individual, interpersonal and environmental) to active travel to/from school in an observational study of young adolescents.

Methods

Participants were 294 12–15-year olds living within two miles of their school. Demographic, psychosocial and perceived built environment characteristics around the home were measured by survey, and objective built environment factors around home and school were assessed in Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Mixed effects multinomial regression models tested correlates of engaging in 1–4 (vs 0) and 5–10 (vs 0) active trips/week to/from school, adjusted for distance and other covariates.

Results

64% of participants reported ≥1 active trip/week to/from school. Significant correlates of occasional and/or habitual active travel to/from school included barriers (ORs=0.27 and 0.15), parent modelling of active travel (OR=3.27 for habitual), perceived street connectivity (OR=1.78 for occasional), perceived pedestrian safety around home (OR=2.04 for habitual), objective street connectivity around home (OR=0.97 for occasional), objective residential density around home (ORs=1.10 and 1.11) and objective residential density around school (OR=1.14 for habitual). Parent modelling interacted with pedestrian safety in explaining active travel to/from school.

Conclusions

Results supported multilevel correlates of adolescents’ active travel to school, consistent with ecological models. Correlates of occasional and habitual active travel to/from school were similar. Built environment attributes around schools, particularly residential density, should be considered when siting new schools and redeveloping neighbourhoods around existing schools.
Risk marker associations with venous thrombotic events: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Golomb Beatrice A , Chan Virginia T , Denenberg Julie O , Koperski Sabrina , Criqui Michael H
Published: March 2014

Objective

To examine the interrelations among, and risk marker associations for, superficial and deep venous events—superficial venous thrombosis (SVT), deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE).

Design

Cross-sectional analysis.

Setting

San Diego, California, USA.

Participants

2404 men and women aged 40–79 years from four ethnic groups: non-Hispanic White, Hispanic, African-American and Asian. The study sample was drawn from current and former staff and employees of the University of California, San Diego and their spouses/significant others.

Outcome measures

Superficial and deep venous events, specifically SVT, DVT, PE and combined deep venous events (DVE) comprising DVT and PE.

Results

Significant correlates on multivariable analysis were, for SVT: female sex, ethnicity (African-American=protective), lower educational attainment, immobility and family history of varicose veins. For DVT and DVE, significant correlates included: heavy smoking, immobility and family history of DVEs (borderline for DVE). For PE, significant predictors included immobility and, in contrast to DVT, blood pressure (BP, systolic or diastolic). In women, oestrogen use duration for hormone replacement therapy, in all and among oestrogen users, predicted PE and DVE, respectively.

Conclusions

These findings fortify evidence for known risk correlates/predictors for venous disease, such as family history, hormone use and immobility. New risk associations are shown. Striking among these is an association of PE, but not DVT, to elevated BP: we conjecture PE may serve as cause rather than consequence. Future studies should evaluate the temporal direction of this association. Oxidative stress and cell energy compromise are proposed to explain and predict many risk factors, operating through cell-death mediated triggering of coagulation activation.
Hydrate petroleum system approach to natural gas hydrate exploration
Authors: Max M. D. , Johnson A. H.
Published: March 2014

Natural gas hydrate (NGH) is a solid crystalline material composed of water and natural gas (primarily methane) that is stable under conditions of moderately high pressure and moderately low temperature found in permafrost and continental margin sediments. A NGH petroleum system is different in a number of important ways from conventional petroleum systems related to large concentrations of gas and petroleum. The critical elements of the NGH petroleum system are: (1) a gas hydrate stability zone (GHSZ) in which pressure and temperature lie within the field of hydrate stability, creating a thermodynamic trap of suitable thickness for NGH concentrations to form; (2) recent and modern gas flux into the GHSZ along migration pathways; and (3) suitable sediment host sands within the GHSZ. These elements have to be active now and in the recent geological past. Exploration in continental margin sediments includes basin analysis to identify source and host sediment likelihood and disposition, potential reservoir localization using existing seismic analysis tools for locating turbidite sands and estimating NGH saturation, and deposit characterization using drilling and logging. Drilling has validated first-order seismic analysis techniques for identifying and quantifying NGH using rock physics mechanical models.
Mechanisms Underlying Nucleosome Positioning In Vivo
Authors: Hughes Amanda L. , Rando Oliver J.
Published: March 2014

It has been some 40 years since repeating subunits in eukaryotic chromatin, initially termed “nu bodies,” were described. Four decades of study have characterized the structural organization of the nucleosome, from multiple crystal structures of individual nucleosomes to genome-wide maps of nucleosome positions in scores of organisms. Nucleosome positioning can impact essentially all DNA-templated processes, making an appreciation of the forces shaping the nucleosomal landscape in eukaryotes key to fully understanding genomic regulation. Here, we review the factors impacting nucleosome positioning and the ways that nucleosomes can control the output of the genome.
Entangled Polymer Dynamics in Equilibrium and Flow Modeled Through Slip Links
Authors: Schieber Jay D. , Andreev Marat
Published: March 2014

The idea that the dynamics of concentrated, high–molecular weight polymers are largely governed by entanglements is now widely accepted and typically understood through the tube model. Here we review alternative approaches, slip-link models, that share some similarities to and offer some advantages over tube models. Although slip links were proposed at the same time as tubes, only recently have detailed, quantitative mathematical models arisen based on this picture. In this review, we focus on these models, with most discussion limited to mathematically well-defined objects that conform to state-of-the-art beyond-equilibrium thermodynamics. These models are connected to each other through successive coarse graining, using nonequilibrium thermodynamics along the way, and with a minimal parameter set. In particular, the most detailed level of description has four parameters, three of which can be determined directly from atomistic simulations. Once the remaining parameter is determined for any system, all parameters for all members of the hierarchy are determined. We show how, using this hierarchy of slip-link models combined with atomistic simulations, we can make predictions about the nonlinear rheology of monodisperse homopolymer melts, polydisperse melts, or blends of different architectures. Mathematical details are given elsewhere, so these are limited here, and physical ideas are emphasized. We conclude with an outlook on remaining challenges that might be tackled successfully using this approach, including complex flow fields and polymer blends.
Continuous-Flow Differential Mobility Analysis of Nanoparticles and Biomolecules
Authors: Flagan Richard C.
Published: March 2014

The differential mobility analyzer (DMA) is a powerful instrument that continuously separates aerosol particles according to their migration velocities in an electric field with high resolution. Because of the low fields employed, the mobility can be related to particle size or ion cross section. Combined with a sensitive detector, such as a continuous-flow condensation particle counter, the DMA enables differential size distribution measurements to be made within minutes to seconds. Over the past few decades, these capabilities have made the DMA a central tool for aerosol characterization in the 10–1,000-nm size range. DMAs have been adapted recently for measurement of particles as small as 1 nm and are now contributing to our understanding of nucleation, nanotechnology, and gas ions. Moreover, the opposed migration classifier, a new approach to differential mobility analysis, expands the dynamic range and shows promise both for increasing resolution beyond present levels and for changing the way that instruments are built. Thus, the DMA continues to advance methods and capabilities for physical characterization at transition from molecules to clusters to particles.
Evolution of Neogene Mammals in Eurasia: Environmental Forcing and Biotic Interactions
Authors: Fortelius Mikael , Eronen Jussi T. , Kaya Ferhat , Tang Hui , Raia Pasquale , Puolamäki Kai
Published: March 2014

The relative weights of physical forcing and biotic interaction as drivers of evolutionary change have been debated in evolutionary theory. The recent finding that species, genera, clades, and chronofaunas all appear to exhibit a symmetrical pattern of waxing and waning lends support to the view that biotic interactions shape the history of life. Yet, there is similarly abundant evidence that these primary units of biological evolution arise and wane in coincidence with major climatic change. We review these patterns and the process-level explanations offered for them. We also propose a tentative synthesis, characterized by interdependence between physical forcing and biotic interactions. We suggest that species with evolutionary novelties arise predominantly in “species factories” that develop under harsh environmental conditions, under dominant physical forcing, whereas exceptionally mild environments give rise to “oases in the desert,” characterized by strong competition and survival of relics.
Particle Geophysics
Authors: Tanaka Hiroyuki K.M.
Published: March 2014

Geophysics research has long been dominated by classical mechanics, largely disregarding the potential of particle physics to augment existing techniques. The purpose of this article is to review recent progress in probing Earth's interior with muons and neutrinos. Existing results for various volcanological targets are reviewed. Geoneutrinos are also highlighted as examples in which the neutrino probes elucidate the composition of Earth's deep interior. Particle geophysics has the potential to serve as a useful paradigm to transform our understanding of Earth as dramatically as the X-ray transformed our understanding of medicine and the body.
Optimal Design of Funded Pension Schemes
Authors: Bovenberg Lans , Mehlkopf Roel
Published: March 2014

This article reviews the literature on the optimal design and regulation of funded pension schemes. We first characterize optimal saving and investment over an individual’s life cycle. Within a stylized modeling framework, we explore optimal individual saving and investing behavior. Subsequently, various extensions of the model are considered, such as additional financial risk factors, stochastic human capital, and more elaborate individual preferences. We then turn to the literature on intergenerational risk sharing, which suggests that a long-lived entity such as a pension fund or the government can yield ex ante welfare gains by allowing nonoverlapping generations to trade risk. The scope for this type of intergenerational risk sharing, however, is limited by the ability to commit generations to the contract. These commitment problems raise concerns with respect to sustainability and intergenerational fairness. We explore the role of solvency regulations to address these concerns about intergenerational fairness and discontinuity risk.
The Causes and Consequences of Development Clusters: State Capacity, Peace, and Income
Authors: Besley Timothy , Persson Torsten
Published: March 2014

Three important aspects of development—per capita income, state capabilities, and (the absence of) political violence—are correlated with each other at the country level. This article discusses the causes of such development clusters and highlights two explanations: common economic, political, and social drivers and complementarities (two-way positive feedbacks). It also draws out preliminary policy implications of these patterns of development and proposes topics for further research.
Empirical Revealed Preference
Authors: Crawford Ian , De Rock Bram
Published: March 2014

This article aims to provide an introduction to empirical revealed preference (RP) and an overview of the current state of the field. We hope to give a sense of how RP methods work and the types of questions they can address and to assess the strengths and drawbacks of the approach. After briefly recapping the basics of RP theory, we review and critically assess the literature in two main areas representing the principal fields in which recent research has made significant advances: broadening the scope of RP methods and dealing with empirical issues related to bringing RP to the data. We conclude with a discussion of some future directions.
Magnetoelectric Devices for Spintronics
Authors: Fusil S. , Garcia V. , Barthélémy A. , Bibes M.
Published: March 2014

The control of magnetism by electric fields is an important goal for the future development of low-power spintronics. Various approaches have been proposed on the basis of either single-phase multiferroic materials or hybrid structures in which a ferromagnet is influenced by the electric field applied to an adjacent insulator (usually having a ferroelectric, piezoelectric, or multiferroic character). The electric field effect on magnetism can be driven by purely electronic or electrostatic effects or can occur through strain coupling. Here we review progress in the electrical control of magnetic properties (anisotropy, spin order, ordering temperature, domain structure) and its application to prototype spintronic devices (spin valves, magnetic tunnel junctions). We tentatively identify the main outstanding difficulties and give perspectives for spintronics and other fields.
Cardiac aging is initiated by matrix metalloproteinase-9-mediated endothelial dysfunction
Authors: Yabluchanskiy Andriy , Ma Yonggang , Chiao Ying Ann , Lopez Elizabeth F. , Voorhees Andrew P. , Toba Hiroe , Hall Michael E. , Han Hai-Chao , Lindsey Merry L. , Jin Yu-Fang
Published: March 2014

Aging is linked to increased matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) expression and extracellular matrix turnover, as well as a decline in function of the left ventricle (LV). Previously, we demonstrated that C57BL/6J wild-type (WT) mice > 18 mo of age show impaired diastolic function, which was attenuated by MMP-9 deletion. To evaluate mechanisms that initiate the development of cardiac dysfunction, we compared the LVs of 6–9- and 15–18-mo-old WT and MMP-9 null (Null) mice. All groups showed similar LV function by echocardiography, indicating that dysfunction had not yet developed in the older group. Myocyte nuclei numbers and cross-sectional areas increased in both WT and Null 15–18-mo mice compared with young controls, indicating myocyte hypertrophy. Myocyte hypertrophy leads to an increased oxygen demand, and both WT and Null 15–18-mo mice showed an increase in angiogenic signaling. Plasma proteomic profiling and LV analysis revealed a threefold increase in von Willebrand factor and fivefold increase in vascular endothelial growth factor in WT 15–18-mo mice, which were further elevated in Null mice. In contrast to the upregulation of angiogenic stimulating factors, actual LV vessel numbers increased only in the 15–18-mo Null LV. The 15–18-mo WT showed amplified expression of inflammatory genes related to angiogenesis, including C-C chemokine receptor (CCR)7, CCR10, interleukin (IL)-1f8, IL-13, and IL-20 (all, P < 0.05), and these increases were blunted by MMP-9 deletion (all, P < 0.05). To measure vascular permeability as an index of endothelial function, we injected mice with FITC-labeled dextran. The 15–18-mo WT LV showed increased vascular permeability compared with young WT controls and 15–18-mo Null mice. Combined, our findings revealed that MMP-9 deletion improves angiogenesis, attenuates inflammation, and prevents vascular leakiness in the setting of cardiac aging.
Vasodilator responses to acetylcholine are not mediated by the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase or TRPV4 channels in the rat
Authors: Pankey Edward A. , Kassan Modar , Choi Soo-Kyoung , Matrougui Khalid , Nossaman Bobby D. , Hyman Albert L. , Kadowitz Philip J.
Published: March 2014

The effects of 1H-[1,2,4]-oxadizaolo[4,3-]quinoxaline-1-one (ODQ), an inhibitor of the activation of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) on responses to NO donors acetylcholine (ACh) and bradykinin (BK) were investigated in the pulmonary and systemic vascular beds of the rat. In these studies the administration of ODQ in a dose of 5 mg/kg iv attenuated vasodilator responses to five different NO donors without inhibiting responses to ACh and BK in the systemic and pulmonary vascular beds of the rat. Vasodilator responses to ACh were not inhibited by l-NAME or the transient receptor vanilloid type 4 (TRPV4) antagonist GSK-2193874, which attenuated vasodilator responses to the TRPV4 agonist GSK-1016790A. ODQ did not inhibit vasodilator responses to agents reported to act in an NO-independent manner or to vasoconstrictor agents, and ODQ did not increase blood methemoglobin levels, suggesting that off target effects were minimal. These results show that ODQ in a dose that inhibited NO donor-mediated responses did not alter vasodilator responses to ACh in the pulmonary and systemic vascular beds and did not alter systemic vasodilator responses to BK. The present results indicate that decreases in pulmonary and systemic arterial pressures in response to ACh are not mediated by the activation of sGC or TRPV4 channels and that ODQ can be used to study the role of the activation of sGC in mediating vasodilator responses in the rat.
Preclinical anatomical, molecular, and functional imaging of the lung with multiple modalities
Authors: Gammon Seth T. , Foje Nathan , Brewer Elizabeth M. , Owers Elizabeth , Downs Charles A. , Budde Matthew D. , Leevy W. Matthew , Helms My N.
Published: March 2014

In vivo imaging is an important tool for preclinical studies of lung function and disease. The widespread availability of multimodal animal imaging systems and the rapid rate of diagnostic contrast agent development have empowered researchers to noninvasively study lung function and pulmonary disorders. Investigators can identify, track, and quantify biological processes over time. In this review, we highlight the fundamental principles of bioluminescence, fluorescence, planar X-ray, X-ray computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and nuclear imaging modalities (such as positron emission tomography and single photon emission computed tomography) that have been successfully employed for the study of lung function and pulmonary disorders in a preclinical setting. The major principles, benefits, and applications of each imaging modality and technology are reviewed. Limitations and the future prospective of multimodal imaging in pulmonary physiology are also discussed. In vivo imaging bridges molecular biological studies, drug design and discovery, and the imaging field with modern medical practice, and, as such, will continue to be a mainstay in biomedical research.
Preparation of Tween 80-Zn/Al-Levodopa-Layered Double Hydroxides Nanocomposite for Drug Delivery System
Authors: Kura Aminu Umar , Hussein-Al-Ali Samer Hasan , Hussein Mohd Zobir , Fakurazi Sharida
Published: March 2014

We incorporated anti-Parkinsonian drug, levodopa (dopa), in Zn/Al-LDH by coprecipitation method to form dopa-LDH nanocomposite. Further coating of Tween-80 on the external surfaces of dopa-LDH nanocomposite was achieved through the oxygen of C=O group of Tween-80 with the layer of dopa-LDH nanocomposite. The final product is called Tween-dopa-LDH nanocomposite. The X-ray diffraction indicates that the Tween-dopa-LDH nanocomposite was formed by aggregation structure. From the TGA data, the Tween-80 loading on the surface of LDH and dopa-LDH was 8.6 and 7.4%, respectively. The effect of coating process on the dopa release from Tween-dopa-LDH nanocomposite was also studied. The release from Tween-dopa-LDH nanocomposite shows slower release compared to the release of the drug from dopa-LDH nanocomposite as done previously in our study, presumably due to the retarding shielding effect. The cell viability study using PC12 showed improved viability with Tween-80 coating on dopa-LDH nanocomposite as studied by mitochondrial dehydrogenase activity (MTT assay).
A Survey on Investigating the Need for Intelligent Power-Aware Load Balanced Routing Protocols for Handling Critical Links in MANETs
Authors: Sivakumar B. , Bhalaji N. , Sivakumar D.
Published: March 2014

In mobile ad hoc networks connectivity is always an issue of concern. Due to dynamism in the behavior of mobile nodes, efficiency shall be achieved only with the assumption of good network infrastructure. Presence of critical links results in deterioration which should be detected in advance to retain the prevailing communication setup. This paper discusses a short survey on the specialized algorithms and protocols related to energy efficient load balancing for critical link detection in the recent literature. This paper also suggests a machine learning based hybrid power-aware approach for handling critical nodes via load balancing.
Pattern Formation in a Bacterial Colony Model
Authors: Lian Xinze , Lu Guichen , Wang Hailing
Published: March 2014

We investigate the spatiotemporal dynamics of a bacterial colony model. Based on the stability analysis, we derive the conditions for Hopf and Turing bifurcations. Furthermore, we present novel numerical evidence of time evolution of patterns controlled by parameters in the model and find that the model dynamics exhibit a diffusion controlled formation growth to spots, holes and stripes pattern replication, which show that the bacterial colony model is useful in revealing the spatial predation dynamics in the real world.
Impact of MSWI Bottom Ash Codisposed with MSW on Landfill Stabilization with Different Operational Modes
Authors: Li Wen-Bing , Yao Jun , Malik Zaffar , Zhou Gen-Di , Dong Ming , Shen Dong-Sheng
Published: March 2014

The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of municipal solid waste incinerator (MSWI) bottom ash (BA) codisposed with municipal solid waste (MSW) on landfill stabilization according to the leachate quality in terms of organic matter and nitrogen contents. Six simulated landfills, that is, three conventional and three recirculated, were employed with different ratios of MSWI BA to MSW. The results depicted that, after 275-day operation, the ratio of MSWI BA to fresh refuse of 1 : 10 (V : V) in the landfill was still not enough to provide sufficient acid-neutralizing capacity for a high organic matter composition of MSW over 45.5% (w/w), while the ratio of MSWI BA to fresh refuse of 1 : 5 (V : V) could act on it. Among the six experimental landfills, leachate quality only was improved in the landfill operated with the BA addition (the ratio of MSWI BA to fresh refuse of 1 : 5 (V : V)) and leachate recirculation.
Effect of the Velocity Second Slip Boundary Condition on the Peristaltic Flow of Nanofluids in an Asymmetric Channel: Exact Solution
Authors: Aly Emad H. , Ebaid Abdelhalim
Published: March 2014

The problem of peristaltic nanofluid flow in an asymmetric channel in the presence of the second-order slip boundary condition was investigated in this paper. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this parameter was here incorporated for the first time in such field of a peristaltic flow. The system governing the current flow was found as a set of nonlinear partial differential equations in the stream function, pressure gradient, nanoparticle concentration, and temperature distribution. Therefore, this system has been successfully solved exactly via a very effective procedure. These exact solutions were then proved to reduce to well-known results in the absence of second slip which were published very recently in the literature. Effect of the second slip parameter on the present physical parameters was discussed through graphs and it was found that this type of slip is a very important one to predict the investigated physical model. Moreover, the variation of many physical parameters such as amplitudes of the lower and upper waves, phase difference on the temperature distribution, nanoparticle concentration, pressure rise, velocity, and pressure gradient were also discussed. Finally, the present results may be viewed as an optimal choice for their dependence on the exact solutions which are obtained due to the highly complex nonlinear system.
An Efficient and Securem-IPS Scheme of Mobile Devices for Human-Centric Computing
Authors: Jeong Young-Sik , Lee Jae Dong , Lee Jeong-Bae , Jung Jai-Jin , Park Jong Hyuk
Published: March 2014

Recent rapid developments in wireless and mobile IT technologies have led to their application in many real-life areas, such as disasters, home networks, mobile social networks, medical services, industry, schools, and the military. Business/work environments have become wire/wireless, integrated with wireless networks. Although the increase in the use of mobile devices that can use wireless networks increases work efficiency and provides greater convenience, wireless access to networks represents a security threat. Currently, wireless intrusion prevention systems (IPSs) are used to prevent wireless security threats. However, these are not an ideal security measure for businesses that utilize mobile devices because they do not take account of temporal-spatial and role information factors. Therefore, in this paper, an efficient and secure mobile-IPS (m-IPS) is proposed for businesses utilizing mobile devices in mobile environments for human-centric computing. Them-IPS system incorporates temporal-spatial awareness in human-centric computing with various mobile devices and checks users’ temporal spatial information, profiles, and role information to provide precise access control. And it also can extend application ofm-IPS to the Internet of things (IoT), which is one of the important advanced technologies for supporting human-centric computing environment completely, for real ubiquitous field with mobile devices.
Apolipoprotein E Gene Polymorphism and Serum Lipid Profile in Saudi Patients with Psoriasis
Authors: Al Harthi Fahad , Huraib Ghaleb Bin , Zouman Abdulrahman , Arfin Misbahul , Tariq Mohammad , Al-Asmari Abdulrahaman
Published: March 2014

Background/Aim. Apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene variants have been reported to influence psoriasis risk. However, data is limited to a few ethnicities and no similar study has been performed in middle eastern populations. We investigated this association in Saudi psoriasis patients.Methods. Saudi subjects (294) were genotyped for APOE gene using APOE StripAssay kit.Results. The frequencies of allelesε2,ε4, and genotypesε3/ε4 andε3/ε2 were significantly higher in psoriasis patients compared with those in controls. The frequency ofε3 allele andε3/ε3 genotype was significantly lower in patients. Other genotypes,ε2/ε4,ε2/ε2, andε4/ε4, were absent in both groups. The serum cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels were significantly higher in psoriasis patients contrary to HDL level. Patients with APOEε4 had significantly higher levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, whereas those with theε2 had higher HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.Conclusion. APOE allelesε2,ε4, and genotypesε2/ε3 andε4/ε3 are associated with psoriasis and can be a risk factor while alleleε3 and genotypeε3/ε3 may be protective for psoriasis in Saudis. Results of lipid profile support that psoriasis is one of the independent risk factors for hyperlipidemia and emphasize the need of screening cardiovascular diseases in psoriatic patients.
Formulation of a Novel Nanoemulsion System for Enhanced Solubility of a Sparingly Water Soluble Antibiotic, Clarithromycin
Authors: Vatsraj Stuti , Chauhan Kishor , Pathak Hilor
Published: March 2014

The sparingly water soluble property of majority of medicinally significant drugs acts as a potential barrier towards its utilization for therapeutic purpose. The present study was thus aimed at development of a novel oil-in-water (o/w) nanoemulsion (NE) system having ability to function as carrier for poorly soluble drugs with clarithromycin as a model antibiotic. The therapeutically effective concentration of clarithromycin, 5 mg/mL, was achieved using polysorbate 80 combined with olive oil as lipophilic counterion. A three-level three-factorial central composite experimental design was utilized to conduct the experiments. The effects of selected variables, polysorbate 80 and olive oil content and concentration of polyvinyl alcohol, were investigated. The particle size of clarithromycin for the optimized formulation was observed to be 30 nm. The morphology of the nanoemulsion was explored using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The emulsions prepared with the optimized formula demonstrated good physical stability during storage at room temperature. Antibacterial activity was conducted with the optimized nanoemulsion NESH 01 and compared with free clarithromycin. Zone of inhibition was larger for NESH 01 as compared to that with free clarithromycin. This implies that the solubility and hence the bioavailability of clarithromycin has increased in the formulated nanoemulsion system.
Intestinal Type of Lung Adenocarcinoma in Younger Adults
Authors: Stojsic Jelena , Kontic Milica , Subotic Dragan , Popovic Marko , Tomasevic Dragana , Lukic Jelena
Published: March 2014

Intestinal type of lung adenocarcinoma (ILADC) was initially described by Tsao and Fraser in 1991. Morphology and immunophenotype of ILADC are the same as in colorectal adenocarcinoma. Rectocolonoscopy must be performed to exclude colorectal origin of adenocarcinoma. Colorectal adenocarcinoma claimed to be genetically similar to an ILADC.Patients. We describe 24- and 26-year-old patients of both genders who went under surgery because of a lung tumor mass detected on CT scan. ILADC was diagnosed on resected lung specimens. According to positivity of Cytokeratin20, CDX-2, and Villin, respectively, and negativity of Cytokeratin7, TTF-1, Napsin-A, SurfactantB, MUC-1, and MUC-2, respectively, ILADC was diagnosed. KRAS mutation was detected in tumor tissue of the male patient.Conclusion. Rectocolonoscopy is the only relevant method for distinguishing the intestinal type of lung adenocarcinoma from metastatic colorectal carcinoma because immunohistochemistry and detection of mutation status are frequently the same in both types of adenocarcinoma. More investigations are needed for further understanding of ILADC in purpose of personalized lung carcinoma therapy particularly introducing detection of mutation status, especially in younger patients.
Big Data Reduction and Optimization in Sensor Monitoring Network
Authors: He Bin , Li Yonggang
Published: March 2014

Wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are increasingly being utilized to monitor the structural health of the underground subway tunnels, showing many promising advantages over traditional monitoring schemes. Meanwhile, with the increase of the network size, the system is incapable of dealing with big data to ensure efficient data communication, transmission, and storage. Being considered as a feasible solution to these issues, data compression can reduce the volume of data travelling between sensor nodes. In this paper, an optimization algorithm based on the spatial and temporal data compression is proposed to cope with these issues appearing in WSNs in the underground tunnel environment. The spatial and temporal correlation functions are introduced for the data compression and data recovery. It is verified that the proposed algorithm is applicable to WSNs in the underground tunnel.
Network-Coding-Based Energy-Efficient Data Fusion and Transmission for Wireless Sensor Networks with Heterogeneous Receivers
Authors: Wang Lei , Yang Yuwang , Zhao Wei , Xu Lei , Lan Shaohua
Published: March 2014

This paper proposes a multirate network coding scheme to improve the energy efficiency of wireless sensor networks (WSNs). Firstly, a five-layer network model is introduced, in which a perfect solution can always be achieved. Then, a network topology which belongs to the five-layer network model will be established from the given sensor networks so that the receivers can receive data at a higher rate without introducing excessive additional transmissions, which improves the energy efficiency as a result. The performance of the proposed scheme is evaluated in a simulated instance, and the result shows that 9% of transmission overhead can be saved compared with traditional scheme.
Finite Queueing Modeling and Optimization: A Selected Review
Authors: Cruz F. R. B. , van Woensel T.
Published: March 2014

This review provides an overview of the queueing modeling issues and the related performance evaluation and optimization approaches framed in a joined manufacturing and product engineering. Such networks are represented as queueing networks. The performance of the queueing networks is evaluated using an advanced queueing network analyzer: the generalized expansion method. Secondly, different model approaches are described and optimized with regard to the key parameters in the network (e.g., buffer and server sizes, service rates, and so on).
Impact of Minimal Residual Disease, Detected by Flow Cytometry, on Outcome of Myeloablative Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Bar Merav , Wood Brent L. , Radich Jerald P. , Doney Kristine C. , Woolfrey Ann E. , Delaney Colleen , Appelbaum Frederick R. , Gooley Ted A.
Published: March 2014

In this retrospective study, we evaluated the impact of pre- and posttransplant minimal residual disease (MRD) detected by multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC) on outcome in 160 patients with ALL who underwent myeloablative allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT). MRD was defined as detection of abnormal B or T cells by MFC with no evidence of leukemia by morphology (<5% blasts in marrow) and no evidence of extramedullary disease. Among 153 patients who had pre-HCT flow data within 50 days before transplant, MRD pre-HCT increased the risk of relapse (hazard ratio (HR) = 3.64; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.87–7.09;P=.0001) and mortality (HR = 2.39; 95% CI, 1.46–3.90,P=.0005). Three-year estimates of relapse were 17% and 38% and estimated 3-year OS was 68% and 40% for patients without and with MRD pre-HCT, respectively. 144 patients had at least one flow value post-HCT, and the risk of relapse among those with MRD was higher than that among those without MRD (HR = 7.47; 95% CI, 3.30–16.92,P<.0001). The risk of mortality was also increased (HR = 3.00; 95% CI, 1.44–6.28,P=.004). These data suggest that pre- or post-HCT MRD, as detected by MFC, is associated with an increased risk of relapse and death after myeloablative HCT for ALL.
A Novel Inhibitor of Mammalian Triosephosphate Isomerase Found by an In Silico Approach
Authors: Marsh Lorraine , Shah Kaushal
Published: March 2014

Triosephosphate isomerase (TIM) is an essential, highly conserved component of glycolysis. Tumors are often dependent on glycolysis for energy and metabolite production (the Warburg effect). Glycolysis inhibitors thus show promise as cancer treatments. TIM inhibition, unlike inhibition of other glycolysis enzymes, also produces toxic methylglyoxal targeted to regions of high glycolysis, an effect that might also be therapeutically useful. Thus TIM is an attractive drug target. A total of 338,562 lead-like molecules were analyzed computationally to find TIM inhibitors by an efficient “double screen” approach. The first fragment-sized compounds were studied using structure-based virtual screening to identify binding motifs for mammalian TIM. Subsequently, larger compounds, filtered to meet the binding criteria developed in the first analysis, were ranked using a second round of structure-based virtual screening. A compound was found that inhibited mammalian TIM in vitro in the micromolar range. Docking and molecular dynamics (MD) suggested that the inhibitor made hydrogen bond contacts with TIM catalytic residues. In addition, hydrophobic contacts were made throughout the binding site. All predicted inhibitor-TIM interactions involved TIM residues that were highly conserved. The discovered compound may provide a scaffold for elaboration of other inhibitors.
Airloads Correlation of the UH-60A Rotor inside the 40- by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel
Authors: Chang I-Chung , Norman Thomas R. , Romander Ethan A.
Published: March 2014

The presented research validates the capability of a loosely coupled computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and comprehensive rotorcraft analysis (CRA) code to calculate the flowfield around a rotor and test stand mounted inside a wind tunnel. The CFD/CRA predictions for the Full-Scale UH-60A Airloads Rotor inside the National Full-Scale Aerodynamics Complex (NFAC) 40- by 80-Foot Wind Tunnel at NASA Ames Research Center are compared with the latest measured airloads and performance data. The studied conditions include a speed sweep at constant lift up to an advance ratio of 0.4 and a thrust sweep at constant speed up to and including stall. For the speed sweep, wind tunnel modeling becomes important at advance ratios greater than 0.37 and test stand modeling becomes increasingly important as the advance ratio increases. For the thrust sweep, both the wind tunnel and test stand modeling become important as the rotor approaches stall. Despite the beneficial effects of modeling the wind tunnel and test stand, the new models do not completely resolve the current airload discrepancies between prediction and experiment.
Recurrent Retrorectal Teratoma
Authors: Vana P. Geoff , Yong Sherri , Hayden Dana , Saclarides Theodore , Slogoff Michelle , Boblick William , Eberhardt Joshua
Published: March 2014

Retrorectal tumors are a rare group of neoplasms that occur most commonly in the neonatal and infant population. They vary in presentation, but teratomas are the most common and often present as a protruding mass from the sacrococcygeal region. Immediate surgical resection is indicated when found and coccygectomy is performed to prevent recurrence. When teratomas recur, the patients most often have vague symptoms and the tumors usually have malignant transformation. Here, we present the case of a young woman who underwent surgical resection of a sacrococcygeal teratoma at 3 days of age where the coccyx was not removed. She presented at 31 years of age with lower extremity paresthesias and radiography revealed a cystic mass extending from the sacrum. After resection, pathology revealed a recurrent teratoma with nests of adenocarcinoma.
Correlation of Vitamin D Levels with Pigmentation in Vitiligo Patients Treated with NBUVB Therapy
Authors: Sehrawat Manu , Arora Tarlok Chand , Chauhan Amrita , Kar Hemanta Kumar , Poonia Amitabh , Jairath Vijayeeta
Published: March 2014

Cholecalciferol (vitamin D) might play a physiological role in photo-induced melanogenesis in human skin. We estimated the levels of 25-hydroxy vitamin D [25(OH)D] before, during, and after Narrow Band Ultraviolet B (NBUVB) radiation in patients of vitiligo and their correlation with NBUVB induced pigmentation. Thirty patients of vitiligo and equal number of age and sex matched controls were recruited for the study. Vitiligo patients were treated with NBUVB thrice weekly for 12 weeks. [25(OH)D] levels and Vitiligo Area and Severity Index (VASI) were calculated at 0 (baseline), 6, and 12 weeks. Baseline [25(OH)D] levels were measured in controls. Significant reduction in VASI score was observed after 12 weeks of therapy. Comparison and correlation between mean improvement in VASI and [25(OH)D] levels at 12 weeks showed moderate correlation, and the results were statistically insignificant. Mean reduction in VASI and increase in [25(OH)D] levels after 12 weeks of NBUVB showed moderate correlation. Thus, vitamin D might play a significant role in photo-induced melanogenesis. However, there might be additional effects of the phototherapy on melanogenesis. The complete mechanism of NBUVB induced pigmentation in vitiligo needs to be elucidated.
The Regulation of Autophagy by Influenza A Virus
Authors: Zhang Rong , Chi Xiaojuan , Wang Song , Qi Baomin , Yu Xiaoqiang , Chen Ji-Long
Published: March 2014

Influenza A virus is a dreadful pathogen of animals and humans, causing widespread infection and severe morbidity and mortality. It is essential to characterize the influenza A virus-host interaction and develop efficient counter measures against the viral infection. Autophagy is known as a catabolic process for the recycling of the cytoplasmic macromolecules. Recently, it has been shown that autophagy is a critical mechanism underlying the interaction between influenza A virus and its host. Autophagy can be induced by the infection with influenza A virus, which is considered as a necessary process for the viral proliferation, including the accumulation of viral elements during the replication of influenza A virus. On the other hand, influenza A virus can inhibit the autophagic formation via interaction with the autophagy-related genes (Atg) and signaling pathways. In addition, autophagy is involved in the influenza virus-regulated cell deaths, leading to significant changes in host apoptosis. Interestingly, the high pathogenic strains of influenza A virus, such as H5N1, stimulate autophagic cell death and appear to interplay with the autophagy in distinct ways as compared with low pathogenic strains. This review discusses the regulation of autophagy, an influenza A virus driven process.
Shape of Slender Axisymmetric Ventilated Supercavities
Authors: Nesteruk Igor
Published: March 2014

The integral-differential equation was obtained to simulate unsteady evolutions of the slender axisymmetric ventilated supercavity with the use of one-dimensional inviscid flow of the incompressible gas in the channel between the cavity surface and the body of revolution. For small ventilation rates, the solution of this equation was expressed as asymptotic series. In the steady case the nonlinear differential equation and its solutions were obtained. It was shown that the ventilation can increase and diminish the supercavity dimensions. Examples of calculations for different hull shapes are presented. At some critical values of the gas injection rate the cavity dimensions can become unbounded. Stability of steady and pulsating gas cavities was investigated in the case of the low gas injection rate.