bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Liver X Receptor Activation Enhances Blood–Brain Barrier Integrity in the Ischemic Brain and Increases the Abundance of ATP‐Binding Cassette Transporters ABCB1 and ABCC1 on Brain Capillary Cells
Authors: ElAli Ayman , Hermann Dirk M.
Published: July 2011

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) consists of dense contacts between endothelial cells, the tight junctions, which are complemented by membrane‐bound transporters belonging to the ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter family. Liver X receptors (LXR) have previously been shown to stabilize the integrity of atherosclerotic noncerebral arteries. Their effects on ischemic cerebral vessels are still unknown. By delivering LXR agonists, T0901317 and GW3965, to mice submitted to 30 minutes intraluminal middle cerebral artery occlusion, we show that LXR activation reduces brain swelling and decreases BBB permeability by upregulating LXR's target calpastatin that deactivates calpain‐1/2, stabilizing p120 catenin. p120 catenin specifically interacts with RhoA and Cdc42, inactivating the former and overactivating the latter, thus restoring the postischemic expression, phosphorylation and interaction of the tight junction proteins occludin and zona occludens‐1. Moreover, LXR activation deactivates matrix metalloproteases‐2/9 and inhibits microvascular apoptosis by deactivating JNK1/2 and caspase‐3. In addition to the cholesterol transporters ABCA1 and ABCG1, which have previously been shown to be upregulated by LXR in noncerebral vessels, LXR activation increases the abundance of the drug transporters ABCB1 and ABCC1 on ischemic brain capillaries, as we further show. That LXR activation promotes endothelial integrity in different ways makes this receptor attractive as target for stroke therapies.
Distinct Spatio‐Temporal Extracellular Matrix Accumulation within Demyelinated Spinal Cord Lesions in Theiler's Murine Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Haist Verena , Ulrich Reiner , Kalkuhl Arno , Deschl Ulrich , Baumgärtner Wolfgang
Published: July 2011

The accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) and glial scar formation are considered important factors for the failure of regeneration in central nervous system (CNS) injury and multiple sclerosis. Theiler's murine encephalomyelitis (TME) as a model of multiple sclerosis served to evaluate the spatio‐temporal course of ECM alterations in demyelinating conditions. Microarray analysis revealed only mildly upregulated gene expression of ECM molecules, their biosynthesis pathways and pro‐fibrotic factors, while upregulation of matrix remodeling enzymes was more prominent. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated progressive accumulation of chondroitin sulfate proteoglycans, glycoproteins and collagens within demyelinated TME lesions, paralleling the development of astrogliosis. Deposition of collagen IV, laminin, perlecan and tenascin‐C started 28 days postinfection (dpi), collagen I, decorin, entactin and neurocan accumulated from 56 dpi on, and fibronectin from 98 dpi on. The basement membrane (BM) molecules collagen IV, entactin, fibronectin, laminin and perlecan showed perivascular and parenchymal deposition, while the non‐BM components collagen I, decorin, neurocan and tenascin‐C only accumulated in a nonvascular pattern in demyelinated areas. Contrary, phosphacan expression progressively decreased during TME. The immunoreactivity of aggrecan and brevican remained unchanged. The spatio‐temporal association of matrix accumulation with astrogliosis suggests a mainly astrocytic origin of ECM deposits, which in turn may contribute to remyelination failure in TME.
Characterization of Influenza A Outbreaks in Minnesota Swine Herds and Measures Taken to Reduce the Risk of Zoonotic Transmission
Authors: Beaudoin A. , Johnson S. , Davies P. , Bender J. , Gramer M.
Published: July 2011

Influenza A virus infections commonly cause respiratory disease in swine and can be transmitted between people and pigs, with potentially novel strains introduced into herds and spilling back into the human population. The goals of this study were to characterize influenza infections in Minnesota pigs and assess biosecurity measures used by swine workers. Veterinarians submitting influenza‐positive swine samples to the University of Minnesota Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory between October 2007 and April 2009 were surveyed regarding disease‐related information and biosecurity procedures at each farm. Influenza‐positive samples were submitted year‐round, peaking in spring and fall. H1N1 was the most commonly detected subtype (56%), followed by H3N2 (14%) and H1N2 (12%). Most positive submissions were associated with illness in growing pigs (median age 8.8 weeks, IQR 5–15). Median morbidity and mortality were 25% (IQR 10–48) and 2% (IQR 0.5–3.5), respectively. Vaccination of sows and growing pigs was conducted at 71% and 7.9% of the swine farms, respectively. Specialized footwear was reported as the most common form of protective equipment used by workers. Employee vaccination for seasonal influenza was 19%. The sow vaccination rate in this study is consistent with national data, although growing pig vaccination is lower than the national average. Seasonal and age trends identified here may provide diagnostic guidance when growing pigs experience respiratory disease. Inconsistent use of protective equipment and employee vaccination at swine farms indicates the need for further discussion and research of approaches to minimize interspecies influenza transmission on swine farms.
User: Inspiration or Constraint?
Authors: Oygur Isil , McCoy Janetta Mitchell
Published: July 2011

This article shares findings from a case study conducted in a senior interior design studio in which students were introduced to user–centered integrated design process (user–centered IDP) through a rural community–university collaboration. The goal was to understand the role of the user and user involvement in the interior design process. The research focused on the integration dimension of user–centered IDP and analyzed how students utilized user interaction and knowledge through the stages of the design process. This understanding is important for better interweaving user involvement and design, managing more effective design projects, and supporting student learning in the interior design studio. Research results indicated that students utilized the knowledge of the user in two ways: as an inspiration and as a constraint. The user, as a design factor, oscillated between inspiration and constraint thus suggesting an inspiration–constraint cycle of user in interior design process. This finding demonstrated the constructivist nature of user. Students constructed, deconstructed, and reconstructed the concept of the user based on project context and requirements.
Gay until Proven Straight: Exploring Perceptions of Male Interior Designers from Male Practitioner and Student Perspectives
Authors: Matthews Carl , Hill Caroline
Published: July 2011

Given the small percentage of men studying interior design versus the higher percentage of men in the profession, and misperceptions of male designers among the general public, there is a need to examine sexual identity and stereotyping in the interior design industry. While researchers have explored the experiences of gay men working “straight jobs” and men doing “women's work” (e.g., nursing, teaching), very little research to date has focused on the experience of men (gay and straight) in careers that are stereotypically identified with gay men (e.g., hairstyling, dance, flight attendance, fashion design, interior design). The purpose of this paper is to address this gap and explore how sexual orientation influences the experiences and perceptions of male interior design students and professionals. Practitioner participants were identified through membership lists of ASID and IIDA, while male interior design students were contacted through the Interior Design Educators Council (IDEC) “listserv” with faculty assistance. Potential subjects were invited to complete an online survey (30 questions for students, 32 questions for practitioners) in the spring of 2008 using SurveyGold, an online survey tool. One hundred sixteen students completed the survey ( N = 116) while 51 practitioners responded ( N = 51). Researchers anticipated that male interior designers encountered stereotyping regarding their sexual orientation, and that this in turn may affect their attitudes toward their career, relationships with colleagues and clients, design perspectives, and self–comfort. Survey responses generally supported these assumptions and serve to quantify and bring to light the complexity of this important and unexplored issue.
Are diagrams always helpful tools? Developmental and individual differences in the effect of presentation format on student problem solving
Authors: Booth Julie L. , Koedinger Kenneth R.
Published: July 2011

Background. High school and college students demonstrate a verbal, or textual, advantage whereby beginning algebra problems in story format are easier to solve than matched equations (Koedinger & Nathan, 2004). Adding diagrams to the stories may further facilitate solution (Hembree, 1992; Koedinger & Terao, 2002). However, diagrams may not be universally beneficial (Ainsworth, 2006; Larkin & Simon, 1987).

Aims. To identify developmental and individual differences in the use of diagrams, story, and equation representations in problem solving. When do diagrams begin to aid problem‐solving performance? Does the verbal advantage replicate for younger students?

Sample. Three hundred and seventy‐three students (121 sixth, 117 seventh, 135 eighth grade) from an ethnically diverse middle school in the American Midwest participated in Experiment 1. In Experiment 2, 84 sixth graders who had participated in Experiment 1 were followed up in seventh and eighth grades.

Method. In both experiments, students solved algebra problems in three matched presentation formats (equation, story, story + diagram).

Results. The textual advantage was replicated for all groups. While diagrams enhance performance of older and higher ability students, younger and lower‐ability students do not benefit, and may even be hindered by a diagram's presence.

Conclusions. The textual advantage is in place by sixth grade. Diagrams are not inherently helpful aids to student understanding and should be used cautiously in the middle school years, as students are developing competency for diagram comprehension during this time.
The effect of an expressive writing intervention (EWI) on stress in infertile couples undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART) treatment: A randomized controlled pilot study
Authors: Matthiesen Signe , Klonoff‐Cohen Hillary , Zachariae Robert , Jensen‐Johansen Mikael B. , Nielsen Berit K. , Frederiksen Yoon , Schmidt Lone , Ingerslev Hans Jakob
Published: July 2011

Objectives. Infertile couples undergoing fertility treatments may experience stress and could benefit from psychological intervention. Expressive Writing Intervention (EWI) has shown promising results on various psychological outcomes, yet only one study has applied the method to infertility‐related stress. Our aim was to assess feasibility and effectiveness of EWI for patients in treatment with Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART).

Design and participants. Patients enrolling in their first ART treatment at the fertility clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Denmark were offered to participate. A total of 82 participants (45 women, 37 men), mean age: 33.17, were randomized to home‐based EWI or neutral writing control group and completed an infertility‐related stress questionnaire at treatment enrollment, 3 weeks later (at the time of down regulation), and 6 weeks after the intervention. The intervention took place 2 weeks after treatment start.

Results. Mixed between‐within ANOVA showed a main effect of time (Wilks Lambda = 0.68, F(2,28) = 6.48) as well as a significant interaction effect between group (control/ EWI) and time (Wilks Lambda = 0.83, F(2,28) = 2.92). Infertility‐related stress decreases were observed after the intervention in the EWI group compared to controls. Six weeks after the intervention, stress tended to increase in both groups, with the control group, follow‐up stress levels exceeding baseline stress scores, whereas the follow‐up scores of EWI‐participants’ did not exceed baseline levels.

Conclusions. Our preliminary results suggest EWI to be a feasible, cost‐effective, and efficient method for alleviating infertility‐related stress, although results should be considered preliminary and further testing with a larger sample is warranted.
Victim responsibility, credibility, and verdict in a simulated rape case: Application of Weiner's attribution model
Authors: Sperry Kathryn , Siegel Jason T.
Published: July 2011

Purpose. Victims of rape are often attributed a certain amount of responsibility, which is often translated into reduced victim credibility and fewer convictions in the courtroom. The purpose of the present study was to apply Weiner's attribution model to the literature on rape blame to understand why victim blame impacts credibility and verdict. Weiner's model posits that perceptions of a target's responsibility will lead to less sympathy and therefore reduced willingness to help the target. In line with this model, it was hypothesized that sympathy for a rape victim mediates the relationship between victim responsibility and: (a) willingness to help the victim, (b) credibility, and (c) verdict.

Methods. Participants read a 1,000‐word transcript of a rape trial and made judgements regarding the victim's responsibility for the rape, sympathy for the victim, willingness to help the victim, perceived witness credibility, and verdict. The victim's responsibility for the rape was manipulated between subjects.

Results. The hypotheses were supported: sympathy mediated the relationships between perceived victim responsibility and: (a) willingness to help the victim, (b) credibility, and (c) verdict. Using EQS, two models are presented (one hypothesized and one modified) that further delineate these relationships.

Conclusions. The present study applied a well‐established theory in social psychology to further understand the relationship between victim blame, willingness to help, victim credibility, and verdict. In line with Weiner's attribution model, sympathy for the victim played a key role in those relationships. Implications of these findings for legal professionals are discussed.
An Instantaneous Power of Strain Approach to the Calculation of Elastoplastic Strain Energy Density in SUS 304 Steel
Authors: Lachowicz Cyprian T. , Lachowicz Dorian S.
Published: July 2011

Presenting a method of identifying and calculating the elastoplastic strain energy density with the instantaneous power of strain, authors of this paper propose using it as a fatigue life/parameter for materials prone to nonproportional cyclic hardening effect.
Dynamic Mechanical Properties of PMMA/Organoclay Nanocomposite: Experiments and Modeling
Authors: Boumbimba Rodrigue Matadi , Ahzi Said , Bahlouli Nadia , Ruch David , Gracio José
Published: July 2011

Similarly to unfilled polymers, the dynamic mechanical properties of polymer/organoclay nanocomposites are sensitive to frequency and temperature, as well as to clay concentration. Richeton et al. (2005, “A Unified Model for Stiffness Modulus of Amorphous Polymers Across Transition Temperatures and Strain Rates,” Polymer, 46, pp. 8194–8201) has recently proposed a statistical model to describe the storage modulus variation of glassy polymers over a wide range of temperature and frequency. In the present work, we propose to extend this approach for the prediction of the stiffness of polymer composites by using two-phase composite homogenization methods. The phenomenological law developed by Takayanagi et al., 1966, J. Polym. Sci., 15, pp. 263–281 and the classical bounds proposed by Voigt, 1928, Wied. Ann., 33, pp. 573–587 and Reuss and Angew, 1929, Math. Mech., 29, pp. 9–49 models are used to compute the effective instantaneous moduli, which is then implemented in the Richeton model (Richeton et al., 2005, “A Unified Model for Stiffness Modulus of Amorphous Polymers Across Transition Temperatures and Strain Rates,” Polymer, 46, pp. 8194–8201). This adapted formulation has been successfully validated for PMMA/cloisites 20A and 30B nanocomposites. Indeed, good agreement has been obtained between the dynamic mechanical analysis data and the model predictions of poly(methyl-methacrylate)/organoclay nanocomposites.
Effect of Localized Metal Matrix Composite Formation on Spot Friction Welding Joint Strength
Authors: Miller Scott F. , Arul Senthil G. , Kruger Grant H. , Pan Tsung-Yu , Shih Albert J.
Published: July 2011

In this study, metal particles were added during the spot friction welding (SFW) process, a solid state sheet metal joining process, to create a localized metal matrix composite (MMC) for the improvement of lap shear strength in AISI 6111-T4 aluminum alloy sheets. The Ancorsteel® 1000 particles were compressed between the upper and lower sheets and distributed concentrically around the tool axis perpendicular to the plate surface, which formed a localized MMC and were effective as the reinforcement particles in aluminum 6111-T4 alloy sheets. Results revealed that the MMC reinforcement improved the lap shear strength of SFW joints by about 25%. An aluminum-ferrous solid solution was formed around the steel particles along the aluminum matrix interface. The load-deflection curve shows that the steel particle MMC increased both the strength and ductility of SFW joint. This is attributed to two phenomena observed on the failed lap shear tensile specimens with SFW MMC. One is the longer and more torturous crack path, and the other is the secondary crack on steel particle MMC reinforced SFW joints.
MODEL-FREE IMPLIED VOLATILITY: FROM SURFACE TO INDEX
Authors: FUKASAWA M. , ISHIDA I. , MAGHREBI N. , OYA K. , UBUKATA M. , YAMAZAKI K.
Published: July 2011

We propose a new method for approximating the expected quadratic variation of an asset based on its option prices. The quadratic variation of an asset price is often regarded as a measure of its volatility, and its expected value under pricing measure can be understood as the market's expectation of future volatility. We utilize the relation between the asset variance and the Black-Scholes implied volatility surface, and discuss the merits of this new model-free approach compared to the CBOE procedure underlying the VIX index. The interpolation scheme for the volatility surface we introduce is designed to be consistent with arbitrage bounds. We show numerically under the Heston stochastic volatility model that this approach significantly reduces the approximation errors, and we further provide empirical evidence from the Nikkei 225 options that the new implied volatility index is more accurate in predicting future volatility.
OPTION PRICING VIA MAXIMIZATION OVER UNCERTAINTY AND CORRECTION OF VOLATILITY SMILE
Authors: DOKUCHAEV NIKOLAI
Published: July 2011

The paper presents a pricing rule for market models with stochastic volatility and with an uncertainty in its evolution law. It is shown that the most common stochastic volatility models allow a possibility that the option price calculated for random volatility with an error in volatility forecasts is lower than the price for the market with zero error of volatility forecast. To eliminate this possibility, we suggest a pricing rule based on maximization of the price via a class of possible equivalent risk-neutral measures. It shown that, in a Markovian setting, this pricing rule requires to solve a parabolic Bellman equation. Some existence results and a priory estimates are obtained for this equation.
EXACT PRICING AND LARGE-TIME ASYMPTOTICS FOR THE MODIFIED SABR MODEL AND THE BROWNIAN EXPONENTIAL FUNCTIONAL
Authors: FORDE MARTIN
Published: July 2011

We derive a closed-form expression for the stock price density under the modified SABR model [see section 2.4 in Islah (2009)] with zero correlation, for β = 1 and β < 1, using the known density for the Brownian exponential functional for μ = 0 given in Matsumoto and Yor (2005), and then reversing the order of integration using Fubini's theorem. We then derive a large-time asymptotic expansion for the Brownian exponential functional for μ = 0, and we use this to characterize the large-time behaviour of the stock price distribution for the modified SABR model; the asymptotic stock price "density" is just the transition density p(t, S0, S) for the CEV process, integrated over the large-time asymptotic "density" [Formula: see text] associated with the Brownian exponential functional (re-scaled), as we might expect. We also compute the large-time asymptotic behaviour for the price of a call option, and we show precisely how the implied volatility tends to zero as the maturity tends to infinity, for β = 1 and β < 1. These results are shown to be consistent with the general large-time asymptotic estimate for implied variance given in Tehranchi (2009). The modified SABR model is significantly more tractable than the standard SABR model. Moreover, the integrated variance for the modified model is infinite a.s. as t → ∞, in contrast to the standard SABR model, so in this sense the modified model is also more realistic.
BROWNIAN SEMISTATIONARY PROCESSES AND CONDITIONAL FULL SUPPORT
Authors: PAKKANEN MIKKO S.
Published: July 2011

In this note, we study the infinite-dimensional conditional laws of Brownian semistationary processes. Motivated by the fact that these processes are typically not semimartingales, we present sufficient conditions ensuring that a Brownian semistationary process has conditional full support, a distributional property that has two important implications. It ensures, firstly, that the process admits no free lunches under proportional transaction costs, and secondly, that it can be approximated pathwise (in the sup norm) by semimartingales that admit equivalent martingale measures.
Breast Cancer Profile in a Group of Patients Followed up at the Radiation Therapy Unit of the Yaounde General Hospital, Cameroon
Authors: Kemfang Ngowa J. D. , Yomi J. , Kasia J. M. , Mawamba Y. , Ekortarh A. C. , Vlastos G.
Published: July 2011

Objective. To describe the profile of breast cancer in the patients attending the radiation therapy unit of Yaounde General Hospital.Method. From 1989 to 2009, we conducted a descriptive retrospective study based on the register and medical records of patients.Results. During the study period, 531 breast cancer patients were recorded of which 0.75% were male. Age range was 18 to 82 years, with a mean of 45.17 years. Out of these, 66.1% were less than 50 years old and 31.9% less than 40. Self detection was the discovery method in most cases (95.34% of patients). Mean delay before presentation at hospital was 10.35 months, and 54.94% had used traditional medicine before medical evaluation. Metastasis and locally advanced breast cancer at diagnosis were present in 08.13% and 62.78%, respectively. Mastectomy was used in 88.08% of patients.Conclusion. The study reinforces the position occupied by late presentation and advanced stage at diagnosis of breast cancer profile in developing countries.
Mental Health Treatment Involvement and Religious Coping among African American, Hispanic, and White Veterans of the Wars of Iraq and Afghanistan
Authors: Greenawalt David S. , Tsan Jack Y. , Kimbrel Nathan A. , Meyer Eric C. , Kruse Marc I. , Tharp David F. , Gulliver Suzy Bird , Morissette Sandra B.
Published: July 2011

Although racial/ethnic differences have been found in the use of mental health services for depression in the general population, research among Veterans has produced mixed results. This study examined racial/ethnic differences in the use of mental health services among 148 Operation Enduring/Iraqi Freedom (OEF/OIF) Veterans with high levels of depression and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms and evaluated whether religious coping affected service use. No differences between African American, Hispanic, and Non-Hispanic white Veterans were found in use of secular mental health services or religious counseling. Women Veterans were more likely than men to seek secular treatment. After controlling for PTSD symptoms, depression symptom level was a significant predictor of psychotherapy attendance but not medication treatment. African American Veterans reported higher levels of religious coping than whites. Religious coping was associated with participation in religious counseling, but not secular mental health services.
Theoretical Study of Carbon Clusters in Silicon Carbide Nanowires
Authors: Morbec J. M. , Miwa R. H.
Published: July 2011

Using first-principles methods we performed a theoretical study of carbon clusters in silicon carbide (SiC) nanowires. We examined small clusters with carbon interstitials and antisites in hydrogen-passivated SiC nanowires growth along the [100] and [111] directions. The formation energies of these clusters were calculated as a function of the carbon concentration. We verified that the energetic stability of the carbon defects in SiC nanowires depends strongly on the composition of the nanowire surface: the energetically most favorable configuration in carbon-coated [100] SiC nanowire is not expected to occur in silicon-coated [100] SiC nanowire. The binding energies of some aggregates were also obtained, and they indicate that the formation of carbon clusters in SiC nanowires is energetically favored.
Parasites or Cohabitants: Cruel Omnipresent Usurpers or Creative “Éminences Grises”?
Authors: Vannier-Santos Marcos A. , Lenzi Henrique L.
Published: July 2011

This paper presents many types of interplays between parasites and the host, showing the history of parasites, the effects of parasites on the outcome of wars, invasions, migrations, and on the development of numerous regions of the globe, and the impact of parasitic diseases on the society and on the course of human evolution. It also emphasizes the pressing need to change the look at the parasitism phenomenon, proposing that the term “cohabitant” is more accurate than parasite, because every living being, from bacteria to mammals, is a consortium of living beings in the pangenome. Even the term parasitology should be replaced by cohabitology because there is no parasite alone and host alone: both together compose a new adaptive system: the parasitized-host or the cohabitant-cohabited being. It also suggests switching the old paradigm based on attrition and destruction, to a new one founded on adaptation and living together.
Askin's Tumor: A Dual Case Study
Authors: Shrestha Bikash , Kapur Bhupendra Nath , Karmacharya Kavita , Kakkar Sunita , Ghuliani Ranjit
Published: July 2011

Askin's tumor is a rare tumor arising from the chest wall. It is a subset of Ewing sarcoma characterized histologically by the presence of small round blue cells. It is a highly malignant tumor with guarded prognosis, which is dependent upon the extension of tumor at the time of diagnosis. A dual paper of Askin's tumors in young boys is being presented here.
The Human Gastric PathogenHelicobacter pyloriand Its Association with Gastric Cancer and Ulcer Disease
Authors: Bauer Bianca , Meyer Thomas F.
Published: July 2011

With the momentous discovery in the 1980's that a bacterium,Helicobacter pylori, can cause peptic ulcer disease and gastric cancer, antibiotic therapies and prophylactic measures have been successful, only in part, in reducing the global burden of these diseases. To date, ~700,000 deaths worldwide are still attributable annually to gastric cancer alone. Here, we reviewH. pylori's contribution to the epidemiology and histopathology of both gastric cancer and peptic ulcer disease. Furthermore, we examine the host-pathogen relationship andH. pyloribiology in context of these diseases, focusing on strain differences, virulence factors (CagA and VacA), immune activation and the challenges posed by resistance to existing therapies. We consider also the important role of host-genetic variants, for example, in inflammatory response genes, in determining infection outcome and the role ofH. pyloriin other pathologies—some accepted, for example, MALT lymphoma, and others more controversial, for example, idiopathic thrombocytic purpura. More recently, intriguing suggestions thatH. pylorihas protective effects in GERD and autoimmune diseases, such as asthma, have gained momentum. Therefore, we consider the basis for these suggestions and discuss the potential impact for future therapeutic rationales.
Noniterative Solution of Some Fermat-Weber Location Problems
Authors: Chen Reuven
Published: July 2011

The Fermat-Weber problem of optimally locating a service facility in the Euclidean continuous two-dimensional space is usually solved by the iterative process first suggested by Weiszfeld or by later versions thereof. The methods are usually rather efficient, but exceptional problems are described in the literature in which the iterative solution is exceedingly long. These problems are such that the solution either coincides with one of the demand points or nearly coincides with it. We describe a noniterative direct alternative, based on the insight that the gradient components of the individual demand points can be considered as pooling forces with respect to the solution point. It is demonstrated that symmetrical problems can thus be optimally solved with no iterations, in analogy to finding the equilibrium point in statics. These include a well-known ill-conditioned problem and its variants, which can now be easily solved to optimality using geometrical considerations.
Primary Hyperparathyroidism in Pregnancy—A Rare Cause of Life-Threatening Hypercalcemia: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Malekar-Raikar S. , Sinnott B. P.
Published: July 2011

Objective. To report a case of primary hyperparathyroidism in a pregnant patient, report the obstetric and neonatal outcomes, and review the relevant literature.Results. A 29-year-old primigravida was successfully treated for PHP with minimally invasive resection of a parathyroid adenoma in the second trimester of pregnancy. A healthy baby girl was delivered at 37-week gestation with an unremarkable neonatal course. To the best of our knowledge, this is the second case report in the literature utilizing intraoperative PTH during a parathyroidectomy in a pregnant woman.Conclusions. Primary hyperparathyroidism is a rare life-threatening condition that can present during pregnancy. The diagnosis can be difficult to establish during pregnancy, given the nonspecific symptoms related to hypercalcemia. However, a better understanding of the condition, improved diagnostic studies, and well-organized multidisciplinary management decisions can significantly reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with the disease during pregnancy. This case report is presented to highlight the value of early diagnosis and appropriate management of PHP during pregnancy.
Bipolar Disorder and the TCI: Higher Self-Transcendence in Bipolar Disorder Compared to Major Depression
Authors: Harley James A. , Wells J. Elisabeth , Frampton Christopher M. A. , Joyce Peter R.
Published: July 2011

Personality traits are potential endophenotypes for genetic studies of psychiatric disorders. One personality theory which demonstrates strong heritability is Cloninger's psychobiological model measured using the temperament and character inventory (TCI). 277 individuals who completed the TCI questionnaire as part of the South Island Bipolar Study were also interviewed to assess for lifetime psychiatric diagnoses. Four groups were compared, bipolar disorder (BP), type 1 and 2, MDD (major depressive disorder), and nonaffected relatives of a proband with BP. With correction for mood state, total harm avoidance (HA) was higher than unaffected in both MDD and BP groups, but the mood disorder groups did not differ from each other. However, BP1 individuals had higher self-transcendence (ST) than those with MDD and unaffected relatives. HA may reflect a trait marker of mood disorders whereas high ST may be specific to BP. As ST is heritable, genes that affect ST may be of relevance for vulnerability to BP.
Lipid Abnormalities and Cardiometabolic Risk in Patients with Overt and Subclinical Thyroid Disease
Authors: Peppa Melpomeni , Betsi Grigoria , Dimitriadis George
Published: July 2011

Dyslipidemia is a common finding in patients with thyroid disease, explained by the adverse effects of thyroid hormones in almost all steps of lipid metabolism. Not only overt but also subclinical hypo- and hyperthyroidism, through different mechanisms, are associated with lipid alterations, mainly concerning total and LDL cholesterol and less often HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, lipoprotein (a), apolipoprotein A1, and apolipoprotein B. In addition to quantitative, qualitative alterations of lipids have been also reported, including atherogenic and oxidized LDL and HDL particles. In thyroid disease, dyslipidemia coexists with various metabolic abnormalities and induce insulin resistance and oxidative stress via a vice-vicious cycle. The above associations in combination with the thyroid hormone induced hemodynamic alterations, might explain the increased risk of coronary artery disease, cerebral ischemia risk, and angina pectoris in older, and possibly ischemic stroke in younger patients with overt or subclinical hyperthyroidism.
Nonconservative Diffusions on with Killing and Branching: Applications to Wright-Fisher Models with or without Selection
Authors: Huillet Thierry E.
Published: July 2011

We consider nonconservative diffusion processes on the unit interval, so with absorbing barriers. Using Doob-transformation techniques involving superharmonic functions, we modify the original process to form a new diffusion process presenting an additional killing rate part . We limit ourselves to situations for which is itself nonconservative with upper bounded killing rate. For this transformed process, we study various conditionings on events pertaining to both the killing and the absorption times. We introduce the idea of a reciprocal Doob transform: we start from the process , apply the reciprocal Doob transform ending up in a new process which is but now with an additional branching rate , which is also upper bounded. For this supercritical binary branching diffusion, there is a tradeoff between branching events giving birth to new particles and absorption at the boundaries, killing the particles. Under our assumptions, the branching diffusion process gets eventually globally extinct in finite time. We apply these ideas to diffusion processes arising in population genetics. In this setup, the process is a Wright-Fisher diffusion with selection. Using an exponential Doob transform, we end up with a killed neutral Wright-Fisher diffusion . We give a detailed study of the binary branching diffusion process obtained by using the corresponding reciprocal Doob transform.
Severe Fetal Distress and Umbilical Cord Strangulation
Authors: Larciprete Giovanni , Montagnoli Carlotta , Fusco Paolo
Published: July 2011

We describe an extreme case of amniotic band syndrome, presented with fetal stress during labor and associated with strangulation of umbilical cord.
Identification of Differentially Expressed MicroRNAs in Osteosarcoma
Authors: Lulla Rishi R. , Costa Fabricio F. , Bischof Jared M. , Chou Pauline M. , Bonaldo Maria de F. , Vanin Elio F. , Soares Marcelo B.
Published: July 2011

A limited number of reports have investigated the role of microRNAs in osteosarcoma. In this study, we performed miRNA expression profiling of osteosarcoma cell lines, tumor samples, and normal human osteoblasts. Twenty-two differentially expressed microRNAs were identified using high throughput real-time PCR analysis, and 4 (miR-135b, miR-150, miR-542-5p, and miR-652) were confirmed and validated in a different group of tumors. Both miR-135b and miR-150 have been previously shown to be important in cancer. We hypothesize that dysregulation of differentially expressed microRNAs may contribute to tumorigenesis. They might also represent molecular biomarkers or targets for drug development in osteosarcoma.
Contingency‐Constrained Optimal Power Flow Using Simplex‐Based Chaotic‐PSO Algorithm
Authors: Gaing Zwe-Lee , Lin Chia-Hung
Published: July 2011

This paper proposes solving contingency‐constrained optimal power flow (CC‐OPF) by a simplex‐based chaotic particle swarm optimization (SCPSO). The associated objective of CC‐OPF with the considered valve‐point loading effects of generators is to minimize the total generation cost, to reduce transmission loss, and to improve the bus‐voltage profile under normal or postcontingent states. The proposed SCPSO method, which involves the chaotic map and the downhill simplex search, can avoid the premature convergence of PSO and escape local minima. The effectiveness of the proposed method is demonstrated in two power systems with contingency constraints and compared with other stochastic techniques in terms of solution quality and convergence rate. The experimental results show that the SCPSO‐based CC‐OPF method has suitable mutation schemes, thus showing robustness and effectiveness in solving contingency‐constrained OPF problems.
Empirical Evidence of Economic Bipolarization in Africa
Authors: Diene Mbaye
Published: July 2011

This paper examines the degree of polarization in African countries′ per capita GDP distribution between 1966 to 2004. We first use a nonparametric analysis and find that the countries tend to cluster in two classes of per capita GDP. Secondly, by using the Wolfson′s bipolarization measure, the results reveal that bipolarization has been accelerating during the two first decades and is still growing. We relate the evolution of polarization during the period to the business sectors. We find that the specialization of the countries is the main factor explaining its evolution, namely, in agriculture and industry sectors.
Isolated Interrupted Aortic Arch: Unexpected Diagnosis in a 63-Year-Old Male
Authors: Javadzadegan Hassan , Porhomayon Jahan , Sadighi Alireza , Yavarikia Mehrdad , Nader Nader
Published: July 2011

A 63-year-old male with history of hypertension, dyspnea on exertion, and chronic chest pain was admitted for elective cardiac angiography. Arterial blood pressure was 160/90 mmHg in both arms. Femoral and popliteal pulses were extremely weak, and third (S3) and fourth (S4) heart sounds were audible. Aortography showed a mildly dilated aortic root with double brachiocephalic trunk and interruption of aortic arch at isthmus. Profuse and well-developed collaterals appeared at neck and thorax. The patient was recommended to take medical treatment for his hypertension and advanced heart failure. The aim of this paper, is to review the diagnostic and therapeutic options for treatment of the interrupted aortic arch.
A Review Focused on the Psychological Effectiveness of Tai Chi on Different Populations
Authors: Zhang Long , Layne Charles , Lowder Thomas , Liu Jian
Published: July 2011

As a popular exercise form, Tai Chi (TC) has been investigated to determine its contributions to an active and healthy lifestyle. There are an increasing number of researchers who focus on exploring the potential physiological and psychological benefits of TC but only a few systematic reviews of these benefits to a variety of populations. The purpose of this paper is to comprehensively evaluate the reported psychological benefits associated with practicing TC. Although many investigators have reported possible psychological benefits of TC for children, young adults, older healthy adults, and for a variety of patient populations, many of the reports suffer one or more methodological flaws. These flaws include inadequate study design, including lack of control groups, small sample sizes, unsophisticated statistical techniques, or publication without rigorous peer review. After reviewing the results of the existing literature regarding the potential psychological benefits of TC, we recommend that future investigations be conducted with additional adherence to the traditional scientific process.
Micro- and Nano-Carrier Mediated Intra-Articular Drug Delivery Systems for the Treatment of Osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhang Zhiyue , Huang Guihua
Published: July 2011

The objective of this paper is to provide readers with current developments of intra-articular drug delivery systems. In recent years, although the search for a clinically successful ideal carrier is ongoing, sustained-release systems, such as polymeric micro- and nanoparticles, liposomes, and hydrogels, are being extensively studied for intra-articular drug delivery purposes. The advantages associated with long-acting preparations include a longer effect of the drug in the action site and a reduced risk of infection due to numerous injections consequently. This paper discusses the recent developments in the field of intra-articular sustained-release delivery systems for the treatment of osteoarthritis.
Transforaminal Blood Patch for the Treatment of Chronic Headache from Intracranial Hypotension: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Bowden Kirk , Wuollet Adam , Patwardhan Amol , Price Theodore J. , Lawall John , Annabi Jeffery , Barker Steven , Annabi Emil
Published: July 2011

This case report describes the successful treatment of chronic headache from intracranial hypotension with bilateral transforaminal (TF) lumbar epidural blood patches (EBPs). The patient is a 65-year-old male with chronic postural headaches. He had not had a headache-free day in more than 13 years. Conservative treatment and several interlaminar epidural blood patches were previously unsuccessful. A transforaminal EBP was performed under fluoroscopic guidance. Resolution of the headache occurred within 5 minutes of the procedure. After three months without a headache the patient had a return of the postural headache. A second transforaminal EBP was performed again with almost immediate resolution. The patient remains headache-free almost six months from the time of first TF blood patch. This is the first published report of the use of transforaminal epidural blood patches for the successful treatment of a headache lasting longer than 3 months.
Central Nervous System Metastases in Patients with HER2-Positive Metastatic Breast Cancer: Incidence, Treatment, and Survival in Patients from registHER
Authors: Brufsky Adam M. , Mayer Musa , Rugo Hope S. , Kaufman Peter A. , Tan-Chiu Elizabeth , Tripathy Debu , Tudor Iulia Cristina , Wang Lisa I. , Brammer Melissa G. , Shing Mona , Yood Marianne Ulcickas , Yardley Denise A.
Published: July 2011

Purpose: registHER is a prospective, observational study of 1,023 newly diagnosed HER2-positive metastatic breast cancer (MBC) patients.

Experimental Design: Baseline characteristics of patients with and without central nervous system (CNS) metastases were compared; incidence, time to development, treatment, and survival after CNS metastases were assessed. Associations between treatment after CNS metastases and survival were evaluated.

Results: Of the 1,012 patients who had confirmed HER2-positive tumors, 377 (37.3%) had CNS metastases. Compared with patients with no CNS metastases, those with CNS metastases were younger and more likely to have hormone receptor–negative disease and higher disease burden. Median time to CNS progression among patients without CNS disease at initial MBC diagnosis (n = 302) was 13.3 months. Treatment with trastuzumab, chemotherapy, or surgery after CNS diagnosis was each associated with a statistically significant improvement in median overall survival (OS) following diagnosis of CNS disease (unadjusted analysis: trastuzumab vs. no trastuzumab, 17.5 vs. 3.8 months; chemotherapy vs. no chemotherapy, 16.4 vs. 3.7 months; and surgery vs. no surgery, 20.3 vs. 11.3 months). Although treatment with radiotherapy seemed to prolong median OS (13.9 vs. 8.4 months), the difference was not significant (P = 0.134). Results of multivariable proportional hazards analyses confirmed the independent significant effects of trastuzumab and chemotherapy (HR = 0.33, P < 0.001; HR = 0.64, P = 0.002, respectively). The effects of surgery and radiotherapy did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.062 and P = 0.898, respectively).

Conclusions: For patients with HER2-positive MBC evaluated in registHER, the use of trastuzumab, chemotherapy, and surgery following CNS metastases were each associated with longer survival. Clin Cancer Res; 17(14); 4834–43. ©2011 AACR.
New Routes to Old Places: PIK3R1 and PIK3R2 Join PIK3CA and PTEN as Endometrial Cancer Genes
Authors: Herrero-Gonzalez Sandra , Di Cristofano Antonio
Published: July 2011

Cheung and colleagues identify PIK3R1 and PIK3R2, the genes encoding the α and β isoforms of the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K) p85 regulatory subunit, as additional mutation targets in endometrial cancer, and describe a novel mechanism leading to PTEN loss. Cancer Discovery; 1(2); 106–7. ©2011 AACR.

Commentary on Cheung et al., p. 170
New Insight Puts CRAF in Sight as a Therapeutic Target
Authors: Rebocho Ana Paula , Marais Richard
Published: July 2011

By selectively depleting components of the RAF-MEK-ERK pathway in transgenic mice, it is now shown in 2 studies that CRAF is critical for signaling to MEK downstream of oncogenic Kras and that BRAF is not required. Cancer Discovery; 1(2); 98–9. ©2011 AACR.

Commentary on Karreth et al., p. 128
The Predictive Value of the Individual Components of the Metabolic Syndrome for Insulin Resistance in Obese Children
Authors: Vos Rimke C. , Houdijk Euphemia C.A.M. , van der Kamp Hetty J. , Pijl Hanno , Wit Jan M.
Published: July 2011

Background/Aims: The usefulness of the concept of the metabolic syndrome (MS) in its current form has recently been questioned, and its association with insulin resistance is unknown. We assessed whether a multivariate model based on all components of MS expressed on a continuous scale would be a better predictor of a common marker of insulin resistance than the current dichotomous MS definitions. Methods: Data from 78 obese Dutch teenagers (age 13.0 ± 2.1 years) were used for model development, and the model was validated in 40 obese Hindustani children (age 12.6 ± 2.0 years). MS components and homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) were expressed as standard deviation scores (SDSs), based on gender- and age-specific reference values. Results: Using the three dichotomous models, the prevalence of MS was found to be 36, 65 and 18%, with low mutual agreement. None of these dichotomous models was a significant predictor for increased HOMA-IR SDS. The multivariate model incorporating MS components expressed as SDSs explained 58% of the variance of increased HOMA-IR SDS. In the validation group, the predicted and observed HOMA-IR SDS (2.4 ± 1.2 vs. 2.6 ± 2.2) did not differ significantly. Conclusion: A multivariate prediction model based on MS components expressed as SDSs has a good predictive value for increased HOMA-IR SDS.