bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PLASMONIC-BASED DEVICES FOR OPTICAL COMMUNICATIONS
Authors: MYNBAEV DJAFAR K. , SUKHARENKO VITALY
Published: December 2012

To meet the demand of delivering ever-increasing Internet traffic, optical network must response by increasing its transmission capacity. Since transmission capacity of an individual fiber is still well exceed the capacity of transmitters (TXs) and receivers (RXs), wavelength-division multiplexing (WDM), in which many TXs and RXs at the transmitting ends of a fiber are used to send and receive many signals, becomes the necessary technology for increasing the transmission capacity of each link of an optical network. This trend, however, demands for increasing density not only the TXs and RXs, but all other components at the sending and receiving ends of communications links. As the number of wavelengths in WDM configuration getting greater, the number of all these components that must be placed on one board has to increase too; hence, the density of packaging comes to micro- and even nano-scale. The TXs and RXs are produced in arrays on a chip quite similar to production of VLSI electronic circuits. At that scale, traditional optical operations used today in an optical-communications technology, such as launching light into optical fiber from TXs and directing light from optical fiber into RXs, multiplexing and demultiplexing individual channels (wavelengths), and electro-optical (E/O) and opto-electrical (O/E) conversions become problems primarily because of the diffraction limit. The problems associated with the diffraction limit are particularly acute for optical interconnects. One of the possible solutions to all these—and some other—problems could be the use of plasmonics. In the last years, the optical-communications industry shows a great interest in developing this topic, as the growing number of publications and practical results can attest.

This paper consists of two parts. The first part reviews the current trends in application of plasmonics in optical communications and the second part discusses the theoretical foundation of the proposed WDM demultiplexer and offers the scheme of possible implementation of the device.
PRESSURE CORRECTIONS FOR THE VISCOELASTIC POTENTIAL FLOW ANALYSIS OF ELECTROHYDRODYNAMIC CAPILLARY INSTABILITY
Authors: AWASTHI MUKESH KUMAR , TIWARI D. K. , ASTHANA RISHI
Published: December 2012

Pressure corrections for the viscoelastic potential flow analysis of capillary instability in the presence of axial electric field has been carried out. In viscoelastic potential flow theory, viscosity enters through normal stress balance and the effects of shearing stresses are completely neglected. We include the viscous pressure in the normal stress balance along with irrotational pressure and it is assumed that this viscous pressure will resolve the discontinuity of the tangential stresses at the interface for two fluids. A dispersion relation is derived for the case of axially imposed electric field and stability is discussed in terms of various parameters such as electric field, Deborah number, Ohnesorge number, permittivity ratio and conductivity ratio etc. Stability criterion is given in terms of critical value of wave number as well as critical value of applied electric field. The system is unstable when electric field is less than the critical value of electric field, otherwise it is stable. It has been found that irrotational shearing stresses have stabilizing effect on the stability of the system.
Taphonomy and significance of rare chalk (Late Cretaceous) echinoderms preserved as beach clasts, north Norfolk, UK
Authors: Donovan S. K.
Published: December 2012

Fossil echinoderms derived from the Chalk occur rarely as clasts eroded from erratic rafts on the beaches of north Norfolk and are almost invariably represented by the holasteroid echinoid
Echinocorys scutata
(Leske). A small collection of other echinoderms from the Overstrand to Cromer coast includes the crinoid
Austinocrinus bicoronatus
(von Hagenow), and the echinoids
Temnocidaris
(
Stereocidaris
) sp., phymosomatid sp. and
Galerites
sp. Most preserve at least some evidence of corrasion and/or bioerosion. The echinoids are preserved either as
steinkerns
or are otherwise protected by flint; the crinoid columnal had lost much of its surface detail due to corrasion. The known stratigraphic ranges of these species suggest that they are derived from the local part of the Norfolk Chalk, spanning the upper Campanian to lower Maastrichtian interval.
The linguliform brachiopod
Discinisca
in the Lower Jurassic Charmouth Mudstone Formation of Dorset and Alum Shale Member of Yorkshire
Authors: Andrew Chris , Howe Paddy , Paul Christopher R.C.
Published: December 2012

New, well-preserved examples of the linguliform brachiopod
Discinisca holdeni
are reported from the Belemnite Marl and Green Ammonite members of the Lower Jurassic Charmouth Mudstone Formation, near Golden Cap, Dorset. Five specimens are attached to ammonites; two are attached to
Tragophylloceras numismale
and one plus another two possible specimens to
Polymorphites evolutus
. Three specimens are attached to a rhynchonellid brachiopod
Scalpellirhynchia scalpellum
? In addition,
Discinisca infraoolithica
is described attached to the ammonite
Dactylioceras
cf.
athleticum
from the Alum Shale Member of the Whitby Mudstone Formation of Yorkshire. An example of
D. infraoolithica
attached to the bivalve
Dacryomya
reveals previously unreported fine curved ridges on the pedicle valve.
Discinisca
spp. probably attached to the ammonite shells
post mortem
, but might have been attached to the rhynchonellid and bivalve when the latter were alive.
Plumbogummite from Upper Teesdale, County Durham, Northern Pennines, UK
Authors: Cotterell T. F. , Young B. , Starkey R. E.
Published: December 2012

The uncommon, lead-aluminium phosphate hydroxide mineral plumbogummite is reported here, for the first time in the Pennine orefields, derived from a highly oxidized lead-rich vein at Grasshill mines, Upper Teesdale, Co. Durham. The plumbogummite is undoubtedly supergene in origin, but whether it formed along with associated pyromorphite through natural,
in situ
weathering, or is a post-mining, dump-formed alteration product is unclear.
Glucose ingestion stimulates atherothrombotic inflammation in polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: González Frank , Kirwan John P. , Rote Neal S. , Minium Judi
Published: December 2012

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have chronic low-grade inflammation that can increase the risk of atherothrombosis. We performed a cross-sectional study to examine the effect of glucose ingestion on markers of atherothrombotic inflammation in mononuclear cells (MNC) of 16 women with PCOS (8 lean, 8 obese) and 16 weight-matched controls. Activator protein-1 (AP-1) activation and the protein content of early growth response-1 (EGR-1), matrix matalloproteinases-2 (MMP2), and tissue factor (TF) were quantified from MNC obtained from blood drawn fasting and 2 h after glucose ingestion. Plasma MMP9 and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured from fasting blood samples. Truncal fat was determined by DEXA. Lean women with PCOS exhibited greater AP-1 activation and MMP2 protein content after glucose ingestion and higher plasma MMP9 and CRP levels than lean controls. Obese women with PCOS exhibited greater EGR-1 and TF protein content after glucose ingestion, and plasma CRP levels were even higher compared with lean subjects regardless of PCOS status. Truncal fat correlated with MMP9 and CRP levels and glucose-stimulated increases in AP-1 activation and EGR-1 and TF protein content. Testosterone correlated with glucose-stimulated AP-1 activation, and androstenedione correlated with MMP9 and CRP levels and glucose-stimulated AP-1 activation. Thus, both PCOS and obesity contribute to an atherothrombotic state in which excess abdominal adiposity and hyperandrogenism may be specific risk factors for developing atherothrombosis.
Work Productivity in Rheumatoid Arthritis: Relationship with Clinical and Radiological Features
Authors: Chaparro del Moral Rafael , Rillo Oscar Luis , Casalla Luciana , Morón Carolina Bru , Citera Gustavo , Cocco José A. Maldonado , Correa María de los Ángeles , Buschiazzo Emilio , Tamborenea Natalia , Mysler Eduardo , Tate Guillermo , Baños Andrea , Herscovich Natalia
Published: December 2012

Objective. To assess the relationship between work productivity with disease activity, functional capacity, life quality and radiological damage in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Methods. The study included consecutive employed patients with RA (ACR'87), aged over 18. Demographic, disease-related, and work-related variables were determined. The reduction of work productivity was assessed by WPAI-RA. Results. 90 patients were evaluated, 71% women. Age average is 50 years old, DAS28 4, and RAQoL 12. Median SENS is 18 and HAQ-A 0.87. Mean absenteeism was of 14%, presenting an average of 6.30 work hours wasted weekly. The reduction in performance at work or assistance was of 38.4% and the waste of productivity was of 45%. Assistance correlated with DAS28 (r = 0.446; P < 0.001), HAQ-A (r = 0.545; P < 0.001) and RAQoL (r = 0.475; P < 0.001). Lower total productivity was noticed in higher levels of activity and functional disability. Patients with SENS > 18 showed lower work productivity than those with SENS < 18 (50 versus 34; P=0.04). In multiple regression analysis, variables associated with reduction of total work productivity were HAQ-A and RAQoL. Conclusion. RA patients with higher disease severity showed higher work productivity compromise.
Paraneoplastic Pemphigus: A Paraneoplastic Autoimmune Multiorgan Syndrome or Autoimmune Multiorganopathy?
Authors: Mahajan Vikram K. , Sharma Vikas , Chauhan Pushpinder S. , Mehta Karaninder S. , Sharma Anju Lath , Abhinav C. , Khatri Gayatri , Prabha Neel , Sharma Saurabh , Negi Muninder
Published: December 2012

Paraneoplastic pemphigus (PNP), a clinically and immunopathologically distinct mucocutaneous blistering dermatosis, is a severe form of autoimmune multiorgan syndrome generally associated with poor therapeutic outcome and high mortality. This IgG-mediated disease is initiated by an obvious or occult lymphoproliferative disorder in most cases. Clinically severe mucositis, and polymorphic blistering skin eruptions, and histologically acantholysis, keratinocyte necrosis and interface dermatitis are its hallmark features. A 58-year-old female presented with recurrent, severe, recalcitrant stomatitis and widespread erosions/blistering lesions of one-year duration. Treatment with repeated courses of systemic corticosteroids at a peripheral center would provide temporary relief. She also had fever, productive cough, odynophagia and poor oral intake, herpes zoster ophthalmicus, pain in the abdomen, and watery diarrhea. An array of investigations revealed chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), mediastinal and para-aortic lymphadenopathy, bronchiolitis obliterans, and vertebral osteoporosis/fractures. With the diagnosis of CLL-associated PNP she was managed with dexamethasone-cyclophosphamide pulse (DCP) therapy for 3 cycles initially, followed by COP regimen (cyclophosphamide, vincristine, and prednisolone) for 5 cycles. Remission is being maintained with chlorambucil and prednisolone pulse therapy once in 3 weeks with complete resolution of skin lesions and adequate control of CLL.
IgE-Mediated Anaphylaxis to Foods, Venom, and Drugs: Influence of Serum Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Levels and Genotype
Authors: Varney V. A. , Warner A. , Ghosh A. , Nicholas A. , Sumar N.
Published: December 2012

Circulating angiotensin-II protects the circulation against sudden falls in blood pressure and is generated by the enzymatic action of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) on angiotensin-I. The ACE genes have 2 allelic forms, “I” and “D.” The “D” genotype has both highest angiotensin-II generation and serum ACE levels compared to “I”.
120 patients with IgE-anaphylaxis, 119 healthy controls, and 49 atopics had serum ACE levels, ACE genotype, and renin levels determined.
Plasma renin levels were identical for all groups.
Serum ACE levels and genotypes were similar for healthy controls (HC) and atopics, but lower in anaphylaxis (), with ACE genotypes also showing increased “I” genes (). This effect was more pronounced in subjects manifesting airway angioedema and cardiovascular collapse (AACVS) than mild cutaneous and respiratory (CRA) symptoms. AACVS was significantly associated with the presence of “I” genes. For “ID” genotype OR is 5.6, 95% CI 1.8 to 17.4, and for “II” genotype OR is 44, 95% CI 5 to 1891 within the anaphylaxis group = 0.001.
The results show a difference in the genotype frequency between control and anaphylaxis, suggesting a role for the renin angiotensin system in anaphylaxis manifesting with airway angioedema and cardiovascular collapse.
Optic Neuritis in an Adult Patient with Chickenpox
Authors: Azevedo Ana Rita , Simões Rita , Silva Filipe , Pina Susana , Santos Cristina , Pêgo Peter , Silva Filomena , Teixeira Susana
Published: December 2012

Central nervous system involvement in a patient with primary infection withVaricella zostervirus is rare, especially in the immunocompetent adult. In particular, isolated optic neuritis has been described in a small number of cases. The authors present a case of optic neuritis in an immunocompetent patient. A 28-year-old woman presented to the emergency room with a history of headaches during the previous week, without visual symptoms. The examination was unremarkable, except for a rash suggestive of chickenpox and hyperemic and edematous optic disc, bilaterally. Visual acuity and neurological examination were normal. Two days later, she complained of pain on eye movement and decreased visual acuity, which was 20/32 in her right eye and 20/60 in her left eye. Four days after admission, her visual acuity started to improve, and two months later, she had 20/20 visual acuity in both eyes. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of an immunocompetent adult in which aVaricella zostervirus associated optic neuritis presented with fundoscopic changes before decreased visual acuity. This suggests that this condition may be underdiagnosed in asymptomatic patients.
Secreted Factors from Bone Marrow Stromal Cells Upregulate IL-10 and Reverse Acute Kidney Injury
Authors: Milwid Jack M. , Ichimura Takaharu , Li Matthew , Jiao Yunxin , Lee Jungwoo , Yarmush Joshua S. , Parekkadan Biju , Tilles Arno W. , Bonventre Joseph V. , Yarmush Martin L.
Published: December 2012

Acute kidney injury is a devastating syndrome that afflicts over 2,000,000 people in the US per year, with an associated mortality of greater than 70% in severe cases. Unfortunately, standard-of-care treatments are not sufficient for modifying the course of disease. Many groups have explored the use of bone marrow stromal cells (BMSCs) for the treatment of AKI because BMSCs have been shown to possess unique anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, and regenerative propertiesin vitroandin vivo. It is yet unresolved whether the primary mechanisms controlling BMSC therapy in AKI depend on direct cell infusion, or whether BMSC-secreted factors alone are sufficient for mitigating the injury. Here we show that BMSC-secreted factors are capable of providing a survival benefit to rats subjected to cisplatin-induced AKI. We observed that when BMSC-conditioned medium (BMSC-CM) is administered intravenously, it prevents tubular apoptosis and necrosis and ameliorates AKI. In addition, we observed that BMSC-CM causes IL-10 upregulation in treated animals, which is important to animal survival and protection of the kidney. In all, these results demonstrate that BMSC-secreted factors are capable of providing support without cell transplantation, and the IL-10 increase seen in BMSC-CM-treated animals correlates with attenuation of severe AKI.
The Role of Acromioplasty for Management of Rotator Cuff Problems: Where Is the Evidence?
Authors: Shi Lewis L. , Edwards T. Bradley
Published: December 2012

The incidence of acromioplasty has increased dramatically in recent decades, but its role in rotator cuff surgery has been debated. Neer popularized the extrinsic theory of rotator cuff pathology, where mechanical compression of the coracoacromial arch leads to tearing of the rotator cuff. Under this theory, acromioplasty is advocated to modify acromial morphology as an essential part of rotator cuff surgery. Proponents of the intrinsic theory suggest rotator cuff tendons undergo degeneration through aging and overuse, and that bursectomy alone without acromioplasty is sufficient. There exist cadaveric studies, expert opinions, and numerous case series espousing both sides of the argument. Recently, however, numerous high-quality prospective randomized controlled trials have been published examining the role of acromioplasty. They have similar study design and randomization protocols, including groups of arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with bursectomy and acromioplasty versus isolated bursectomy. The results have been consistent across all studies, with no difference in the outcomes of the acromioplasty and isolated bursectomy groups. Current evidence does not support the routine use of acromioplasty in the treatment of rotator cuff disease.
The Relationship between Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use and Breast Cancer Early Detection: A Critical Review
Authors: Dale Laura C. , Gotay Carolyn C.
Published: December 2012

Objective. Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) use is prevalent. Concurrently, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, with early detection techniques widely available. This paper examined the overlap between participation in allopathic breast cancer early detection activities and CAM use.Methods. A systematic review examined the association between breast screening behaviors and CAM use. Searches were conducted on the PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, and NCCAM databases and gray literature between 1990 and 2011. STROBE criteria were used to assess study quality.Results. Nine studies met the search criteria. Four focused on CAM use in women at high breast cancer risk and five on average risk women. CAM use in women ranged from 22% to 82% and was high regardless of breast cancer risk. Correlations between CAM use and breast cancer early detection were not strong or consistent but significant relationships that did emerge were positive.Conclusions. Populations surveyed, and measures used to assess CAM, breast cancer screening, and correlates, varied widely. Many women who obtained allopathic screening also sought out CAM. This provides a foundation for future interventions and research to build on women’s motivation to enhance health and develop ways to increase the connections between CAM and allopathic care.
Asymptotic Behavior of a Class of Degenerate Parabolic Equations
Authors: Li Hongtao , Ma Shan
Published: December 2012

We investigate the asymptotic behavior of solutions of a class of degenerate parabolic equations in a bounded domain Ω ⊂ ℝn (n⩾2) with a polynomial growth nonlinearity of arbitrary order. The existence of global attractors is proved in L2(Ω), Lp(Ω), and , respectively, when can be just compactly embedded into Lr(Ω) (r < 2) but not L2(Ω).
Alterations of the Temporomandibular Joint on Magnetic Resonance Imaging according to Growth and Development in Schoolchildren
Authors: Tanaka Tatsurou , Konoo Tetsuro , Habu Manabu , Oda Masafumi , Kito Shinji , Kodama Masaaki , Kokuryo Shinya , Wakasugi-Sato Nao , Matsumoto-Takeda Shinobu , Nishida Ikuko , Morikawa Kazumasa , Saeki Katsura , Maki Kenshi , Tominaga Kazuhiro , Masumi Shin-ichi , Terashita Masamichi , Morimoto Yasuhiro
Published: December 2012

The paper explains the alterations of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) visualized by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) according to the growth and development of schoolchildren. Appearance and disappearance of a “double contour-like structure” (DCLS) of the mandibular condyle on MRI according to the growth and development of schoolchildren were demonstrated. In addition, possible constituents of DCLS and the significance of detection of DCLS on MRI were also speculated. The relationship between red marrow and yellow marrow in the articular eminence of temporal bone, the disappearance of DCLS, and alterations of the mandibular condyle have been elucidated.
Electromagnetic Gyroscopic Motion
Authors: Ismail A. I. , Amer T. S. , El Banna S. A. , El-Ameen M. A.
Published: December 2012

A problem of the gyroscopic motions around a fixed point, under the action of a gyrostatic moment vector, in presence of electromagnetic field and Newtonian one, is considered. The small parameter technique is used to investigate the periodic solutions for the derived equations of such motion problem. A geometric interpretation of motion will be given in terms of Euler’s angles (θ, ψ, ϕ). Computer programs are carried out to integrate the attained quasilinear autonomous system using a fourth‐order Runge‐Kutta method. A comparison between the obtained analytical solutions and the numerical ones is investigated to calculate the errors between them.
Reheated Palm Oil Consumption and Risk of Atherosclerosis: Evidence at Ultrastructural Level
Authors: Xian Tan Kai , Omar Noor Azzizah , Ying Low Wen , Hamzah Aniza , Raj Santhana , Jaarin Kamsiah , Othman Faizah , Hussan Farida
Published: December 2012

Background. Palm oil is commonly consumed in Asia. Repeatedly heating the oil is very common during food processing.Aim. This study is aimed to report on the risk of atherosclerosis due to the reheated oil consumption.Material and Methods. Twenty four male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into control, fresh-oil, 5 times heated-oil and 10 times heated-oil feeding groups. Heated palm oil was prepared by frying sweet potato at 180°C for 10 minutes. The ground standard rat chows were fortified with the heated oils and fed it to the rats for six months.Results. Tunica intima thickness in aorta was significantly increased in 10 times heated-oil feeding group (P<0.05), revealing a huge atherosclerotic plaque with central necrosis projecting into the vessel lumen. Repeatedly heated oil feeding groups also revealed atherosclerotic changes including mononuclear cells infiltration, thickened subendothelial layer, disrupted internal elastic lamina and smooth muscle cells fragmentation in tunica media of the aorta.Conclusion. The usage of repeated heated oil is the predisposing factor of atherosclerosis leading to cardiovascular diseases. It is advisable to avoid the consumption of repeatedly heated palm oil.
Uniform Estimate of the Finite-Time Ruin Probability for All Times in a Generalized Compound Renewal Risk Model
Authors: Gao Qingwu , Jin Na , Zheng Juan
Published: December 2012

We discuss the uniformly asymptotic estimate of the finite-time ruin probability for all times in a generalized compound renewal risk model, where the interarrival times of successive accidents and all the claim sizes caused by an accident are two sequences of random variables following a wide dependence structure. This wide dependence structure allows random variables to be either negatively dependent or positively dependent.
Basal Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck Region: An Analysis of 171 Cases
Authors: Janjua Omer Sefvan , Qureshi Sana Mehmood
Published: December 2012

Objective. To analyze the pattern of presentation of basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and margin status for excised specimens in the head and neck region.Study Design. Retrospective cross-sectional.Duration of Study.January 2009 to December 2011.Methodology. The database of the pathology department was searched to identify records of all malignant skin tumors that underwent standard excision with margins. Out of these records, tumors with a diagnosis of BCC in the head and neck region were retrieved and separated. Age, gender, anatomic location, pattern of tumor, and margin status were noted.Results. A total of 171 cases of BCC from various sites of head and neck were retrieved. Male to female ratio was 1.4 : 1. The age ranged from 22 to 90 years. Seventy-six cases presented on right side, 79 on left, and 16 were in the midline. Most common anatomical site was the nose followed by the cheek. Nodular lesions were the most common (46.2%) followed by pigmented variety (18.7%). Margins were clear in 77 (45.1%) cases, involved in 86 (50.2%) cases, and close in 8 (4.7%) cases.Conclusion. Nose was the most common site followed by the cheek. Nodular and pigmented varieties were the most frequent and margins were involved in more than fifty percent of the cases.
Design, Development, and Optimization of Sterculia Gum-Based Tablet Coated with Chitosan/Eudragit RLPO Mixed Blend Polymers for Possible Colonic Drug Delivery
Authors: Nath Bipul , Nath Lila Kanta
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this study is to explore the possible applicability of Sterculia urens gum as a novel carrier for colonic delivery system of a sparingly soluble drug, azathioprine. The study involves designing a microflora triggered colon-targeted drug delivery system (MCDDS) which consists of a central polysaccharide core and is coated to different film thicknesses with blends of chitosan/Eudragit RLPO, and is overcoated with Eudragit L00 to provide acid and intestinal resistance. The microflora degradation property of gum was investigated in rat caecal medium. Drug release study in simulated colonic fluid revealed that swelling force of the gum could concurrently drive the drug out of the polysaccharide core due to the rupture of the chitosan/Eudargit coating in microflora-activated environment. Chitosan in the mixed film coat was found to be degraded by enzymatic action of the microflora in the colon. Release kinetic data revealed that the optimized MCDDS was fitted well into first-order model, and apparent lag time was found to be 6 hours, followed by Higuchi release kinetics. In vivo study in rabbits shows delayed , prolonged absorption time, decreased , and absorption rate constant (Ka), indicating a reduced systemic toxicity of the drug as compared to other dosage forms.
Caspase-3 and Survivin Expression in Primary Atypical and Malignant Meningiomas
Authors: Vranic Andrej
Published: December 2012

Objective. Information about possible prognostic factors of the survival of patients with atypical and malignant meningiomas (AMM) is sparse. The aim of our study was to evaluate prognostic significance of apoptotic marker caspase-3 and apoptotic inhibitor survivin in a
series of primary AMM. Methods. 86 AMM (76 atypical and 10 malignant) were analyzed. Caspase-3 and survivin expression was evaluated immunohistochemically. The correlation between caspase-3, survivin, and other possible factors of meningioma recurrence was evaluated. Uni- and multivariate recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) analyses were performed. Results. The intensity of caspase-3 expression correlated with the tumor grade (P=0.004), the proliferation index (P=0.019), and the mitotic count (P=0.013). Survivin tended to be more expressed in female patients (P=0.072). Survivin expression was stronger in malignant compared to atypical meningiomas, however, the difference was not statistically important (P=0.491). Neither survivin nor caspase-3 expression significantly predicted OS or RFS in patients with AMM. Conclusions. Strong caspase-3 expression on AMM cells could reflect a cellular attempt at the homeostatic autoregulation of the tumor size. Survivin expression on AMM cells is similar to the survivin expression reported on benign meningiomas. Caspase-3 and survivin expression has no prognostic significance on the survival of patients with AMM.
Ufasomes Mediated Cutaneous Delivery of Dexamethasone: Formulation and Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Activity by Carrageenin-Induced Rat Paw Edema Model
Authors: Mittal Rajkamal , Sharma Arvind , Arora Sandeep
Published: December 2012

The purpose of study is to formulate and evaluate ufasomal gel of dexamethasone. Ufasomal suspension was made by sonication method using different concentrations of Span 80, Span 20 and cholesterol along with 25 mg of drug. Ufasomal gel was formulated by hydration method using carbopol 940. Ufasomal vesicles appeared as spherical and multilamellar under Transmission Electron Microscope. Ufasomal formulation prepared with drug to oleic acid molar ratio 8:2 (UF-2) produced greater number of vesicles and greater entrapment efficiency. UF-2 was optimized for further evaluation. The transdermal permeation and skin partitioning of from optimized formulation was significantly higher () as compared to plain drug and plain gel formulation which is due to presence of surfactant acting as permeation enhancer. Permeation of optimized formulation was found to be about 4.7 times higher than plain drug gel. Anti-inflammatory activity evaluated by inhibition Carrageenan induced rat paw edema model. Significant reduction of edema () was observed in comparison to the commercial product. Hence oleic acid based vesicles can be used as alternate carrier for topical delivery.
Knowledge Discovery for Classification of Three-Phase Vertical Flow Patterns of Heavy Oil from Pressure Drop and Flow Rate Data
Authors: Serapião Adriane B. S. , Bannwart Antonio C.
Published: December 2012

This paper focuses on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques to identify flow patterns acquired and recorded from experimental data of vertical upward three-phase pipe flow of heavy oil, air, and water at several different combinations, in which water is injected to work as the continuous phase (water-assisted flow). We investigate the use of data mining algorithms with rule and tree methods for classifying real data generated by a laboratory scale apparatus. The data presented in this paper represent different heavy oil flow conditions in a real production pipe.
Partitions of Natural Numbers with the Intersection Not Empty
Authors: Yu Wen , Tang Min
Published: December 2012

Let ℕ be the set of nonnegative integers. For a given set A⊂ℕ the representation functions R2(A,n), R3(A,n) are defined as the number of solutions of the equation n=a+a′, a,a′∈A with condition a<a′, a≤a′, respectively. In this paper, we prove that if ℕ=A∪B and A∩B={8k:k∈ℕ}, then Ri(A,n)=Ri(B,n) cannot hold for all sufficiently large integers n where i=2,3.
Human Papillomavirus DNA Is Rarely Detected in Colorectal Carcinomas and Not Associated with Microsatellite Instability: The Seattle Colon Cancer Family Registry
Authors: Burnett-Hartman Andrea N. , Feng Qinghua , Popov Viorica , Kalidindi Anisha , Newcomb Polly A.
Published: December 2012

Background: Persistent infection with oncogenic human papillomavirus (HPV) types-16 and -18 is an established cause of cervical and other cancers. Some studies report detection of oncogenic HPV DNA in colorectal carcinomas, with prevalence estimates as high as 84%. However, other studies report detecting no HPV DNA in colorectal tumors.

Methods: To evaluate the prevalence of HPV in colorectal cancer subsets, we conducted a case–case comparison study. This study included 555 cases of incident colorectal cancer from the Seattle Colon Cancer Family Registry (CCFR), ages 20 to 74 years and diagnosed between 1998 and 2002. Standardized interviews were used to elicit demographics and risk factor data. Tumor DNA was assayed for HPV-16 and -18 DNA using real-time PCR. Microsatellite instability (MSI) status was assessed using a standard 10-marker panel and confirmed with immunohistochemical staining. Prevalence estimates were calculated for the overall sample, and stratified by patient and tumor characteristics. Fisher exact test was used to compare prevalence between strata.

Results: HPV-16 DNA was detected in 2% of colorectal tumors, but no HPV-18 DNA was detected. HPV-16 prevalence did not vary between cases according to sex, age, race, smoking-status, or MSI-status (P > 0.05). HPV-16 prevalence in rectal carcinomas was 5% compared with 1% in colon carcinomas (P = 0.03).

Conclusions: Among a large sample of colorectal carcinomas, prevalence of HPV-16 and -18 was very low. Prior studies detecting high HPV prevalence in colorectal carcinomas are likely the result of contamination from the anal canal or clinical processing.

Impact: HPV is unlikely to play a large role in colorectal carcinogenesis. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 22(2); 317–9. ©2012 AACR.
An Early Appointment to Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation at Hospital Discharge Improves Attendance at Orientation
Authors: Pack Quinn R. , Mansour Mouhamad , Barboza Joaquim S. , Hibner Brooks A. , Mahan Meredith G. , Ehrman Jonathan K. , Vanzant Melissa A. , Schairer John R. , Keteyian Steven J.
Published: December 2012

Background—

Outpatient cardiac rehabilitation (CR) decreases mortality rates but is underutilized. Current median time from hospital discharge to enrollment is 35 days. We hypothesized that an appointment within 10 days would improve attendance at CR orientation.

Methods and Results—

At hospital discharge, 148 patients with a nonsurgical qualifying diagnosis for CR were randomized to receive a CR orientation appointment either within 10 days (early) or at 35 days (standard). The primary end point was attendance at CR orientation. Secondary outcome measures were attendance at ≥1 exercise session, the total number of exercise sessions attended, completion of CR, and change in exercise training workload while in CR. Average age was 60±12 years; 56% of participants were male and 49% were black, with balanced baseline characteristics between groups. Median time (95% confidence interval) to orientation was 8.5 (7–13) versus 42 (35 to NA [not applicable]) days for the early and standard appointment groups, respectively (
P
<0.001). Attendance rates at the orientation session were 77% (57/74) versus 59% (44/74) in the early and standard appointment groups, respectively, which demonstrates a significant 18% absolute and 56% relative improvement (relative risk, 1.56; 95% confidence interval, 1.03–2.37;
P
=0.022). The number needed to treat was 5.7. There was no difference (
P
>0.05) in any of the secondary outcome measures, but statistical power for these end points was low. Safety analysis demonstrated no difference between groups in CR-related adverse events.

Conclusions—

Early appointments for CR significantly improve attendance at orientation. This simple technique could potentially increase initial CR participation nationwide.

Clinical Trial Registration—

URL:
http://www.clinicaltrials.gov
. Unique identifier: NCT01596036.
Safety and Efficacy Evaluation of Carnosine, an Endogenous Neuroprotective Agent for Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Bae Ok-Nam , Serfozo Kelsey , Baek Seung-Hoon , Lee Ki Yong , Dorrance Anne , Rumbeiha Wilson , Fitzgerald Scott D. , Farooq Muhammad U. , Naravelta Bharath , Bhatt Archit , Majid Arshad
Published: December 2012

Background and Purpose—

An urgent need exists to develop therapies for stroke that have high efficacy, long therapeutic time windows, and acceptable toxicity. We undertook preclinical investigations of a novel therapeutic approach involving supplementation with carnosine, an endogenous pleiotropic dipeptide.

Methods—

Efficacy and safety of carnosine treatment was evaluated in rat models of permanent or transient middle cerebral artery occlusion. Mechanistic studies used primary neuronal/astrocytic cultures and ex vivo brain homogenates.

Results—

Intravenous treatment with carnosine exhibited robust cerebroprotection in a dose-dependent manner, with long clinically relevant therapeutic time windows of 6 hours and 9 hours in transient and permanent models, respectively. Histological outcomes and functional improvements including motor and sensory deficits were sustained on 14th day poststroke onset. In safety and tolerability assessments, carnosine did not exhibit any evidence of adverse effects or toxicity. Moreover, histological evaluation of organs, complete blood count, coagulation tests, and the serum chemistry did not reveal any abnormalities. In primary neuronal cell cultures and ex vivo brain homogenates, carnosine exhibited robust antiexcitotoxic, antioxidant, and mitochondria protecting activity.

Conclusions—

In both permanent and transient ischemic models, carnosine treatment exhibited significant cerebroprotection against histological and functional damage, with wide therapeutic and clinically relevant time windows. Carnosine was well tolerated and exhibited no toxicity. Mechanistic data show that it influences multiple deleterious processes. Taken together, our data suggest that this endogenous pleiotropic dipeptide is a strong candidate for further development as a stroke treatment.
Performance Characteristics of Distinct Lightning Detection Networks Covering Belgium
Authors: Poelman Dieter R. , Schulz Wolfgang , Vergeiner Christian
Published: December 2012

This study reports results from electric field measurements coupled to high-speed camera observations of cloud-to-ground lightning to test the performance of lightning location networks in terms of its detection efficiency and location accuracy. The measurements were carried out in August 2011 in Belgium, during which 57 negative cloud-to-ground flashes, with a total of 210 strokes, were recorded. One of these flashes was followed by a continuing current of over 1 s—one of the longest ever observed in natural negative cloud-to-ground lightning. Lightning data gathered from the lightning detection network operated by the Royal Meteorological Institute of Belgium [consisting of a network employing solely Surveillance et Alerte Foudre par Interférométrie Radioélectrique (SAFIR) sensors and a network combining SAFIR and LS sensors], the European Cooperation for Lightning Detection (EUCLID), Vaisala’s Global Lightning Detection network GLD360, and the Met Office’s long-range Arrival Time Difference network (ATDnet) are evaluated against this ground-truth dataset. It is found that all networks are capable of detecting over 90% of the observed flashes, but a larger spread is observed at the level of the individual strokes. The median location accuracy varies between 0.6 and 1 km, except for the SAFIR network, locating the ground contacts with 6.1-km median accuracy. The same holds for the reported peak currents, where a good correlation is found among the networks that provide peak current estimates, apart from the SAFIR network being off by a factor of 3.
An Intraseasonal Prediction Model of Atlantic and East Pacific Tropical Cyclone Genesis
Authors: Henderson Stephanie A. , Maloney Eric D.
Published: December 2012

A real-time statistical model based on the work of Leroy and Wheeler is developed via multiple logistic regression to predict weekly tropical cyclone activity over the Atlantic and east Pacific basins. The predictors used in the model include a climatology of tropical cyclone genesis for each ocean basin, an El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO) index, and two indices representing the propagating Madden–Julian oscillation (MJO). The Atlantic model also includes a predictor representing the variability of sea surface temperature (SST) in the Main Development Region (MDR). These predictors are suggested as useful for the prediction of tropical cyclogenesis based on previous work in the literature and are further confirmed in this study using basic statistics. Univariate logistic regression models are generated for each predictor in each region to ensure the choice of prediction scheme. Using all predictors, cross-validated hindcasts are developed out to a seven-week forecast lead. A formal stepwise predictor selection procedure is implemented to select the predictors used in each region at each forecast lead.

Brier skill scores and reliability diagrams are used to assess the skill and dependability of the models. Results show an increase in model skill over the time-varying climatology at predicting tropical cyclogenesis by the inclusion of the MJO out to a three-week forecast lead for the east Pacific and a two-week forecast lead for the Atlantic. The importance of ENSO and MDR SST for Atlantic genesis prediction is highlighted, and the uncertain effects of ENSO on east Pacific tropical cyclogenesis are revisited.
Andy Isserman’s Regional Science
Authors: Anselin Luc
Published: December 2012

Andy Isserman left a lasting impact on the fields of Regional Science and Planning. This special issue is dedicated to his memory. In addition to summarizing its contents, in this article I also reflect on Andy’s particular view of Regional Science as a field, expressed in many of his writings as well as countless personal conversations.
Assessing Community Connectedness and Self-Regard in a Mid-Life Follow-up of British Chinese Adoptions
Authors: Rushton Alan , Grant Margaret , Simmonds John , Feast Julia
Published: December 2012

In the field of international adoption there has been a long-standing concern that transracially adopted people experience social dislocation from both their communities of origin and the communities in which they grew up. Alan Rushton, Margaret Grant, John Simmonds and Julia Feast of the British Chinese Adoption Study team explore this notion in relation to a sample of 72 ex-orphanage, Hong Kong-born women adopted into British families in the 1960s. The authors report on how the women choose to identify themselves in mid life. The article describes the development and use of specially devised questionnaires to explore community connectedness and self-regard among this group of women. Further analysis examines the relationship between community connectedness and psychological well-being. The findings are then positioned in the context of the narrative data from face-to-face interviews with the women.
The Development of Racial Identity in Transracially Adopted People
Authors: Ung Tien , O'Connor Susan Harris , Pillidge Raymond
Published: December 2012

Tien Ung, Susan Harris O'Connor and Raymond Pillidge introduce a model that aims to explain the development of racial identity in transracially adopted people. The nature and process of racial identity development is examined through a transactional lens, using ecology theory as a conceptual framework. The authors propose that racial identity is a multi-dimensional construct that evolves as a result of an interactive and reciprocal relationship between a person and his or her social, cultural and political environment. In this model, racial identity is comprised of five dimensions: genetic racial identity, imposed racial identity, cognitive racial identity, visual racial identity and feeling racial identity (Harris O'Connor, 1999). The authors draw on selected content from the published personal narratives of adults who were transracially adopted as children to clarify the meaning of each construct, and to illustrate how the constructs may manifest in the experiences and lives of transracially adopted people.
Laparoscopic splenectomy: operative technique and outcome in three cats
Authors: O’Donnell Erica , Mayhew Philipp , Culp William , Mayhew Kelli
Published: December 2012

Clinical summary:

The clinical findings, treatment and outcome for three cats that underwent laparoscopic splenectomy using bipolar vessel-sealing devices for resection of diffuse splenic disease are described. In each case, a three-portal laparoscopic technique was used. The spleen was manipulated and its mesentery and associated vessels sequentially cauterized and ligated to enable removal through a portal incision with minimal hemorrhage. Each of the three patients recovered from anesthesia without incident and was able to be discharged to the owner the next day.

Practical significance:

Laparoscopic splenectomy may be a safe and effective alternative to celiotomy in a select group of cats requiring splenectomy.
Flea Control in Cats
Authors: Siak Meng , Burrows Mandy
Published: December 2012

Practical relevance:

Flea allergic dermatitis is one of the most common skin diseases of cats presented for veterinary attention. It is therefore important for the practitioner to be able to design an appropriate flea management plan for their patients.

Clinical challenges:

There is no ‘one size fits all’ flea control programme for cats. Successful flea management requires an understanding of flea biology and knowledge of the mode of action of commercial flea products, of which there is a wide range available. Management of owner expectations can often present a challenge. Cat owners generally attribute a persistence of fleas after the administration of routine flea control to be a reflection of product failure. Owners may also be sceptical that fleas are responsible for the clinical signs of overgrooming in their cat and perceive a lack of response to flea adulticide treatment to be evidence of this fact.

Evidence base:

This article reviews an extensive body of published literature to update some concepts in flea control and discuss how judicious use of traditional and newer flea products can contribute to an integrated flea control strategy for cats.
Mast Cell Tumors in Cats
Authors: Henry Carolyn , Herrera Chamisa
Published: December 2012

Practical relevance:

Feline mast cell tumors (MCTs) are frequently encountered in general practice. MCTs are the most common splenic tumor, second most common skin tumor and third most common intestinal tumor in cats. Treatment and prognosis can vary dramatically with location and histologic classification.

Clinical challenges:

While a cytologic or histologic diagnosis is often easy to obtain, the various histologic classifications, lack of a relevant grading scheme, and disparity in behavior depending on anatomic location make prognostication for cases of feline MCTs confusing. This is quite different from canine MCTs, where there is an established grading system which correlates clinically with prognosis and an accepted standard of care.

Audience:

Due to its prevalence, general practitioners encounter MCTs regularly. In many instances, referral for diagnosis and treatment is not necessary.

Evidence base:

Historically, there has been limited clinical evidence upon which to determine optimal treatment of MCTs in cats. Most recommendations are based on limited case reports or retrospective studies. With the recent introduction of receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors to the veterinary market, there has been new research on the use of these drugs in cats, and new treatment options are on the horizon.
Journals à la mode? Twenty years of living alongside Mode 2 and the new production of knowledge
Authors: Bresnen Mike , Burrell Gibson
Published: December 2012

This article considers the institutional and political background to the life of Organization associated with continuing debates about ‘modes of scientific knowledge’ and the supposed rise of Mode 2. It suggests that Organization should provide space for a more fully theorized and politically aware position of the new—and old—production of knowledge. It does so by, first, critically exploring the substantial volume of work that continues to insist that Mode 2—and its many variants—have tended to displace more traditional, so-called Mode 1, forms of scientific knowledge production. But its main contribution lies in suggesting that what has lurked behind scientific knowledge production for centuries is a more insidious and underlying mode of knowledge production—one which we label Mode 0—that corresponds to knowledge production based upon relations of power and patronage. We argue that not only does this notion allow us to develop a more penetrating critique of the claims made by proselytizers of Mode 2 but that Mode 0 has proved a more enduring form of knowledge production than Mode 1 and may well have greater longevity. Rather than becoming too embroiled in questions raised by the Mode 1/ Mode 2 debate about the utility of knowledge for managers, we suggest that readers may wish instead to pry further into the hidden world of Mode 0 patronage of knowledge production.