bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trust in Interspecies Sport
Authors: Gilbert Michelle
Published: September 2014

This paper explores how young girls develop trust in their equine partners for the purposes of competitive equestrian sport. I argue that interspecies trust manifests through interactional trust and system trust. Interactional trust, as reflected in the horse-human relationship, is built through joint action and results in symbolic interaction. System trust is made possible through the equine community; it develops through communication in an effort to reduce complexity and uncertainty in society. To encourage and sustain youth participation in competitive equestrian sports both interactional trust and system trust are necessary.
Biofilm-Related Infections: Bridging the Gap between Clinical Management and Fundamental Aspects of Recalcitrance toward Antibiotics
Authors: Lebeaux David , Ghigo Jean-Marc , Beloin Christophe
Published: September 2014

Surface-associated microbial communities, called biofilms, are present in all environments. Although biofilms play an important positive role in a variety of ecosystems, they also have many negative effects, including biofilm-related infections in medical settings. The ability of pathogenic biofilms to survive in the presence of high concentrations of antibiotics is called “recalcitrance” and is a characteristic property of the biofilm lifestyle, leading to treatment failure and infection recurrence. This review presents our current understanding of the molecular mechanisms of biofilm recalcitrance toward antibiotics and describes how recent progress has improved our capacity to design original and efficient strategies to prevent or eradicate biofilm-related infections.
Measuring disability experienced by adults living with HIV: assessing construct validity of the HIV Disability Questionnaire using confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: O'Brien Kelly K , Solomon Patricia , Bayoumi Ahmed M
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To assess the construct validity of the HIV Disability Questionnaire (HDQ), a self-administered questionnaire that describes the presence, severity and episodic nature of disability experienced by people living with HIV.

Design

We conducted a confirmatory factor analysis. We hypothesised that domains in the HDQ characterised six dimensions of disability, each represented by HDQ items: physical symptoms and impairments (20 items); cognitive symptoms and impairments (3 items); mental and emotional health symptoms and impairments (11 items); uncertainty (14 items); difficulties with day-to-day activities (9 items) and challenges to social inclusion (12 items). We developed a measurement model to test these hypotheses. We used maximum likelihood methods of estimation to determine model fit. We considered a threshold for the Root Mean Square Error of Approximation (RMSEA) of <0.05 as an indication of overall goodness of model fit. We considered variables with factor loadings of >0.30 as representing a given domain of disability.

Setting

We recruited adults with HIV from hospital clinics, AIDS service organisations and a specialty hospital in Ontario.

Participants

Of the 361 adults with HIV who completed the HDQ, 80% were men, 36% were 50 or older and 77% reported living with at least two concurrent health conditions in addition to HIV.

Outcome Measures

We administered the HDQ followed by a demographic questionnaire.

Results

The model achieved good overall fit as indicated by a RMSEA of 0.030 (90% CI 0.028 to 0.033). All HDQ items represented our hypothesised dimensions of disability (factor loadings >0.30). Factor loadings ranged from 0.34 to 0.90. Domains of disability correlated with each other ranging from r=0.47 (between difficulties with day-to-day activities and uncertainty) to r=0.88 (between mental-emotional health challenges and challenges to social inclusion).

Conclusions

The six domain structure of the HDQ demonstrated construct validity when administered to adults living with HIV.
Epidemiology of pedestrian–MVCs by road type in Cluj, Romania
Authors: Hamann Cara , Peek-Asa Corinne , Rus Diana
Published: September 2014

Objective

Pedestrian–motor vehicle (PMV) crash rates in Romania are among the highest in all of Europe. The purpose of this study was to examine the characteristics of pedestrian–MVCs in Cluj County, Romania, on the two major types of roadways: national or local.

Methods

Cluj County police crash report data from 2010 were used to identify pedestrian, driver and crash characteristics of pedestrian–MVCs. Crashes with available location data were geocoded and road type (national or local) for each crash was determined. Distributions of crash characteristics were examined by road type and multivariable logistic regression models were built to determine predictors of crash road type.

Results

Crashes occurring on national roads involved more teenagers and adults, while those on local roads involved more young children (0–12) and older adults (65+) (p<0.01). Crashes on national roads were more likely to have marked pedestrian crossings and shoulders compared with local crashes. Pedestrian–MVCs that involved a moving violation by the motorist were more likely to occur on national roadways (adjusted OR=1.93, 95% CI 1.07 to 3.49).

Conclusions

Pedestrian–MVCs pose a considerable health burden in Romania. Results from this study suggest that factors leading to PMV crashes on national roads are more likely to involve driver-related causes compared with local roads. Intervention priorities to reduce pedestrian crashes on national roads should be directed towards driver behaviour on national roads. Further examination of driver and pedestrian behaviours related to crash risk on both national and local roads, such as distraction and speeding, is warranted.
Factors associated with attendance to scheduled outpatient endoscopy
Authors: Laiyemo Adeyinka O , Williams Carla D , Burnside Clinton , Moghadam Sepideh , Sanasi-Bhola Kamla D , Kwagyan John , Brim Hassan , Ashktorab Hassan , Scott Victor F , Smoot Duane T
Published: September 2014

Background

Non-attendance of 42% has been reported for outpatient colonoscopy among persons with low socioeconomic status (SES) in an open access system in the USA.

Objectives

To evaluate attendance to outpatient endoscopy among populations with low SES after inperson consultations with endoscopists prior to scheduling.

Methods

Retrospectively, we reviewed the endoscopy schedule from September 2009 to August 2010 in an inner city teaching hospital in Washington, DC. We identified patients who came for their procedures. We defined non-attendance as when patients did not notify the facility up to 24 h prior to their scheduled procedures and did not show up.

Results

A total of 3304 patients were scheduled for outpatient endoscopy (mean age 55.2 years; 59.5% women). Only 36 (1.1%) patients were uninsured. 716 (21.7%) patients did not show up for their procedures. There were no differences in attendance by age, sex and race. Patients seen in a private endoscopist’s office (OR=1.47; 95% CI 1.07 to 2.04) were more likely to attend when compared with patients seen in trainees’ continuity clinic. Married patients (OR=1.40; 95% CI 1.11 to 1.78) were also more likely to attend. Conversely, Medicaid and uninsured patients were less likely to attend. Restricting our analysis to patients scheduled for only colonoscopy yielded similar results except that patients aged 50 years and older were more likely to attend.

Conclusions

Our study suggests improved attendance to endoscopy when populations with lower SES undergo prior consultation with an endoscopist. There is a potential to further improve attendance to outpatient endoscopy by directly involving the social support of the patients.
MicroRNA-139-5pregulates C2C12 cell myogenesis through blocking Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway
Authors: Mi Lin , Li Youlei , Zhang Qiangling , Zhao Chen , Peng Ying , Yang Gongshe , Zheng Xueli
Published: September 2014

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are novel and potent regulators in myogenesis. However, the molecular mechanisms that many miRNAs regulate myoblast proliferation and differentiation which are largely unknown. Here, we found that miR-139-5p increased during C2C12 myoblast proliferation, while presenting an inverse trend during C2C12 myoblast differentiation. Flow cytometry and EdU incorporation assay showed that miR-139-5p slowed down the growth of C2C12 cells. Additional study demonstrated that ectopic introduction of miR-139-5p into C2C12 cells blocked myoblast differentiation. Importantly, we demonstrated for the first time that Wnt1, which is associated with the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, was a direct target of miR-139-5p. Moreover, we found that the expression level of Wnt1 was suppressed significantly (p < 0.01) by miR-139-5p, which triggered inhibition of Wnt/β-catenin signaling through upregulation of glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β; p < 0.05) and downregulation of p-GSK-3β (p < 0.01), β-catenin (p < 0.05), and nuclear β-catenin (p < 0.01). Taken together, these results suggest that miR-139-5p is an important negative regulator in myogenesis through blocking the Wnt1-mediated Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Explorative behavior increases vulnerability to angling in hatchery-reared brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Härkönen Laura , Hyvärinen Pekka , Paappanen Juuso , Vainikka Anssi
Published: September 2014

Animals, including fish, display individually consistent behavioral differences that may affect an individual’s vulnerability not only to predation, but also to fishing. Compared with complex natural environments, plain hatchery environments might induce development of behaviors that increase vulnerability to fishing, which would in turn have major implications for the management of stocks by supportive releases. We studied whether the vulnerability of hatchery-reared brown trout (Salmo trutta) to angling could be predicted by rearing method (standard versus enriched) or behavioral variation that was assessed using long-term observations of moving activity in groups. High moving activity in the beginning of the behavioral tests (i.e., exploration behavior) predicted increased vulnerability to angling independently of fish body size. Standard rearing promoted high exploration rate among fish, whereas enriched rearing promoted improvement in body condition in (semi-)natural conditions. However, the driving influence of hunger on vulnerability could not be ruled out, as the most explorative standard-reared fish appeared unable to maintain their body condition during the experiments. This study provides direct evidence that standard hatchery rearing method promotes behaviors that directly predict vulnerability to angling.
Melittin Inhibits TGF-β-Induced Pro-Fibrotic Gene Expression Through the Suppression of the TGFβRII-Smad, ERK1/2 and JNK-Mediated Signaling Pathway
Authors: Park Su-Hyun , Cho Hyun-Ji , Jeong Yun-Jeong , Shin Jae-Moon , Kang Jeong-Han , Park Kwan-Kyu , Choe Jung-Yoon , Park Yoon-Yub , Bae Young-Seuk , Han Sang-Mi , Moon Sung-Kwon , Kim Wun-Jae , Choi Yung Hyun , Chang Young-Chae
Published: September 2014

Renal fibrosis is characterized by the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins such as type I collagen, fibronectin, and by the increased expression of PAI-1. This study evaluated the anti-fibrotic effect of bee venom and its major compounds (melittin and apamin) on TGF-β-induced pro-fibrotic gene expression. Bee venom and melittin significantly suppressed type I collagen, fibronectin, and PAI-1 protein expression in the TGF-β-treated kidney fibroblast. However, apamin only inhibited the expression of fibronectin and type I collagen. These results indicated that the inhibitory effects of bee venom on TGF-β-induced pro-fibrotic gene expression are caused by melittin. Moreover, we attempted to elucidate mechanisms underlying the anti-fibrotic effect of melittin. Melittin dramatically inhibited the phosphorylation of TGFβRII and Smad2/3. Also, melittin inhibited the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and JNK, but not the phosphorylation of PI3K, Akt, and p38. These results suggested that melittin inhibits TGF-β-induced pro-fibrotic genes expression through the suppression of TGFβR-Smad2/3, ERK1/2, and JNK phosphorylation, and melittin can be used as a clinical drug for the treatment of fibrosis associated with renal diseases.
Anti-Trypanosomal Activity of Diarylheptanoids Isolated from the Bark ofAlnus japonica
Authors: Tung Nguyen Huu , Suzuki Mitsuko , Uto Takuhiro , Morinaga Osamu , Kwofie Kofi D. , Ammah Naa , Koram Kwadwo A. , Aboagye Frederic , Edoh Dominic , Yamashita Taizo , Yamaguchi Yasuchika , Setsu Takao , Yamaoka Shoji , Ohta Nobuo , Shoyama Yukihiro
Published: September 2014

The crude extract of Alnus japonica bark exhibited a strong effect on the growth of Trypanosoma brucei. Subsequent chromatographic separation resulted in the isolation of two novel diarylheptanoids, known as alnuside C (2) and alnuside D (3), and three known compounds, 1-(3,4-dihydroxyphenyl)-7-(4-hydroxyphenyl)-heptan-3(R)-O-β-D-glucopyranoside (1), oregonin (4) and hirsutanone (5). The structures of the isolates were elucidated based on the use of extensive spectroscopic and chemical methods. Among the isolated diarylheptanoids, oregonin (4) (a major component of plant bark) and hirsutanone (5) exhibited potent in vitro inhibitory activity against T. brucei growth in the bloodstream with IC50values of 1.14 and 1.78 μM, respectively. We confirmed that oregonin (4) and hirsutanone (5) were not toxic to human normal skin fibroblast cells (NB1RGB) and colon cancer cells (HCT-15) at a concentration of 50 μM; however, lower levels of toxicity were observed for leukemia cells. To determine the structure activity relationships of the isolated components, we performed Conformation Search and found that the 3-oxo function of the heptane chain in the diarylheptanoid molecule is required for their trypanocidal activity.
Scheduling Two-Agents with a Time-Dependent Deterioration to Minimize the Minsum Earliness Measures
Authors: Cheng Shuenn-Ren
Published: September 2014

This paper considers a new scheduling model in which both two-agents and a time-dependent deterioration exist simultaneously. By the time-dependent deterioration, it means that the actual processing time of a job belonging to the two-agents is defined as a non-decreasing linear function of its starting time. Two-agents compete to perform their respective jobs on a common single-machine and each agent has his own criterion to be optimized. The aim is to focus on minimizing total (weighted) earliness cost of one agent, subject to an upper bound on the maximum earliness cost of the other agent. The main contribution of this paper is to propose the optimal properties and present the complexity results for the problems addressed here.
A Novel Latin Hypercube Algorithm via Translational Propagation
Authors: Pan Guang , Ye Pengcheng , Wang Peng
Published: September 2014

Metamodels have been widely used in engineering design to facilitate analysis and optimization of complex systems that involve computationally expensive simulation programs. The accuracy of metamodels is directly related to the experimental designs used. Optimal Latin hypercube designs are frequently used and have been shown to have good space-filling and projective properties. However, the high cost in constructing them limits their use. In this paper, a methodology for creating novel Latin hypercube designs via translational propagation and successive local enumeration algorithm (TPSLE) is developed without using formal optimization. TPSLE algorithm is based on the inspiration that a near optimal Latin Hypercube design can be constructed by a simple initial block with a few points generated by algorithm SLE as a building block. In fact, TPSLE algorithm offers a balanced trade-off between the efficiency and sampling performance. The proposed algorithm is compared to two existing algorithms and is found to be much more efficient in terms of the computation time and has acceptable space-filling and projective properties.
Surgical Reconstruction of the Urinary Sphincter after Traumatic Longitudinal Disruption
Authors: Rehder Peter , Schillfahrt Florian , Skradski Viktor
Published: September 2014

The question is whether the urethral sphincter may be reconstructed after longitudinal injury similar to anal sphincter injuries. Analogue to obstetric, anal sphincter repair, an approximation repair of the sphincter may be feasible. An overlap repair is possible in anal sphincter repair, but because of the little tissue available in the urethral sphincter this is not an option. We describe three cases of urethral sphincter injury of different aetiologies. All resulted in a total longitudinal disruption of the muscular components of the urethral sphincter complex. After making the diagnosis of urethral sphincter injury, a primary approximation repair was done. Follow-up of at least two and up to three years is promising with one male patient being completely continent and the two female patients needing one safety pad per day. Longitudinal disruption of the muscular elements of the sphincteric urethra may be primarily reconstructed with good success using an approximation technique with simple interrupted sutures.
Approximate Dual Averaging Method for Multiagent Saddle‐Point Problems with Stochastic Subgradients
Authors: Yuan Deming , Yang Yang
Published: September 2014

This paper considers the problem of solving the saddle‐point problem over a network, which consists of multiple interacting agents. The global objective function of the problem is a combination of local convex‐concave functions, each of which is only available to one agent. Our main focus is on the case where the projection steps are calculated approximately and the subgradients are corrupted by some stochastic noises. We propose an approximate version of the standard dual averaging method and show that the standard convergence rate is preserved, provided that the projection errors decrease at some appropriate rate and the noises are zero‐mean and have bounded variance.
Current Status for Gastrointestinal Nematode Diagnosis in Small Ruminants: Where Are We and Where Are We Going?
Authors: Preston Sarah Jane Margaret , Sandeman Mark , Gonzalez Jorge , Piedrafita David
Published: September 2014

Gastrointestinal nematode (GIN) parasites pose a significant economic burden particularly in small ruminant production systems. Anthelmintic resistance is a serious concern to the effective control of GIN parasites and has fuelled the focus to design and promote sustainable control of practices of parasite control. Many facets of sustainable GIN parasite control programs rely on the ability to diagnose infection both qualitatively and quantitatively. Diagnostics are required to determine anthelmintic efficacies, for targeted treatment programs and selection of animals for parasite resistant breeding. This review describes much of the research investigated to date to improve the current diagnostic for the above practices which is based on counting the number of parasite eggs in faeces.
Fragipan Horizon Fragmentation in Slaking Experiments with Amendment Materials and Ryegrass Root Tissue Extracts
Authors: Karathanasis A. D. , Murdock L. W. , Matocha C. J. , Grove J. , Thompson Y. L.
Published: September 2014

Slaking experiments were conducted of fragipan clods immersed in solutions of poultry manure, aerobically digested biosolid waste (ADB), fluidized bed combustion byproduct (FBC), D-H2O, CaCO3, NaF, Na-hexa-metaphosphate, and ryegrass root biomass. The fragipan clods were sampled from the Btx horizon of an Oxyaquic Fragiudalf in Kentucky. Wet sieving aggregate analysis showed significantly better fragmentation in the NaF, Na-hexa-metaphosphate, and ryegrass root solutions with a mean weight diameter range of 15.5–18.8 mm compared to the 44.2–47.9 mm of the poultry manure, ADB, and FBC treatments. Dissolved Si, Al, Fe, and Mn levels released in solution were ambiguous. The poor efficiency of the poultry manure, ADB, and FBC treatments was attributed to their high ionic strength, while the high efficiency of the NaF, Na-hexa-metaphosphate, and rye grass root solutions to their high sodium soluble ratio (SSR). A slaking mechanism is proposed suggesting that aqueous solutions with high SSR penetrate faster into the fragipan capillaries and generate the critical swelling pressure and shearing stress required to rupture the fragipan into several fragments. Additional fragmentation occurs in a followup stage during which potential Si, Al, Fe, and Mn binding agents may be released into solution. Field experiments testing these findings are in progress.
Assessment of Intraoperative Blood Loss during Oral and Maxillofacial Surgical Procedures in a Nigerian Tertiary Health Care Center
Authors: Akinbami Babatunde O. , Onajin-Obembe Bisola
Published: September 2014

Background. Reports on estimated amount of blood loss in maxillofacial surgical procedures will guide clinicians through units of blood required for each procedure. The aim of the study was to assess the amount of blood loss and duration of surgery. Methods. All cases of maxillofacial surgical procedures done under GA in the MFU theatre, from January 2007 to December 2013, were included in the study. Pre- and postoperative haematocrit values, number of units of whole blood requested and used, amount of blood loss, and duration of surgery were recorded. Results. 139 patients were analyzed, of which 75 (54.0%) were males and 64 (46.0%) were females. Fifty-six (40.3%) cases involved soft tissues. Eighty-three cases involved hard tissues. Age range was 2 months to 78 years; mean ± (SD) was 21.3±(18.5) years. Isolated unilateral cleft lip had the lowest mean value of estimated blood loss of 10.4±10.8 mLs and also the lowest duration of surgery of 58 (76) minutes. There was no significant relationship between both parameters for cleft lip. Fractures of the mandible had mean blood loss of 352 mLs and duration was 175 min. Conclusion. In this study, there was significant relationship between estimated blood loss and duration of surgery for mandibular and zygomatic complex fractures.
Effects of Preoperative Intravenous Clonidine in Patients Undergoing Cataract Surgery: A Double-Blind, Randomized Trial
Authors: Santiago Ana Ellen Queiroz , Issy Adriana Machado , Sakata Rioko Kimiko
Published: September 2014

Objectives. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of clonidine on intraoperative analgesia, sedation, intraocular and blood pressure, arrhythmia, and ischemia.Methods. Forty patients undergoing cataract surgery were allocated into two groups. They were monitored with Holter machine, the pupil was dilated, and 30 minutes later, 20 patients received clonidine (4 µg/kg), while the other 20 patients were given a 0.9% saline intravenously. Twenty minutes later, 2% lidocaine gel was applied. There were assessed intraoperative analgesia, intraocular pressure, blood pressure, heart rate, and the occurrence of arrhythmias and myocardial ischemia.Results. Pain intensity was lower in G1 during the phacoemulsification, irrigation, aspiration, and intraocular lens implantation. The HR and BP were lower with clonidine. The IOP was lower with clonidine after 15 minutes and at the end of the surgery. Sedation was higher with clonidine. The incidence of arrhythmia was lower at the end of surgery with clonidine. The incidence of myocardial ischemia did not differ between the groups.Conclusions. Clonidine (4 µg/kg) before a phacoemulsification reduced the intensity of pain during cataract surgery. It also induced sedation, reduction of BP, HR, and incidence of arrhythmia at the end of the surgery, and did not alter myocardial ischemia. This trial is registered with Clinicaltrials.govNCT01677351.
Fault Tolerant Mechanism for Multimedia Flows in Wireless Ad Hoc Networks Based on Fast Switching Paths
Authors: Diaz Juan R. , Lloret Jaime , Jimenez Jose M. , Sendra Sandra , Rodrigues Joel J. P. C.
Published: September 2014

Multimedia traffic can be forwarded through a wireless ad hoc network using the available resources of the nodes. Several models and protocols have been designed in order to organize and arrange the nodes to improve transmissions along the network. We use a cluster‐based framework, called MWAHCA architecture, which optimizes multimedia transmissions over a wireless ad hoc network. It was proposed by us in a previous research work. This architecture is focused on decreasing quality of service (QoS) parameters like latency, jitter, and packet loss, but other network features were not developed, like load balance or fault tolerance. In this paper, we propose a new fault tolerance mechanism, using as a base the MWAHCA architecture, in order to recover any multimedia flow crossing the wireless ad hoc network when there is a node failure. The algorithm can run independently for each multimedia flow. The main objective is to keep the QoS parameters as low as possible. To achieve this goal, the convergence time must be controlled and reduced. This paper provides the designed protocol, the analytical model of the algorithm, and a software application developed to test its performance in a real laboratory.
New Strategy for the Cleaning of Paper Artworks: A Smart Combination of Gels and Biosensors
Authors: Micheli Laura , Mazzuca Claudia , Cervelli Eleonora , Palleschi Antonio
Published: September 2014

In this work an outlook on the design and application, in the cultural heritage field, of new tools for diagnostic and cleaning use, based on biocompatible hydrogels and electrochemical sensors, is reported. The use of hydrogels is intriguing because it does not require liquid treatment that could induce damage on artworks, while electrochemical biosensors not only are easy to prepare, but also can be selective for a specific compound and therefore are suitable for monitoring the cleaning process. In the field of restoration of paper artworks, more efforts have to be done in order to know how to perform the best way for an effective restoration. Rigid Gellan gel, made up of Gellan gum and calcium acetate, was proposed as a paper cleaning treatment, and selective biosensors for substances to be removed from this gel have been obtained by choosing the appropriate enzymes to be immobilized. Using this approach, it is possible to know when the cleanup process will be completed, avoiding lengthy and sometimes unnecessary cleaning material applications.
Imaging Mass Spectrometry by Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption/Ionization and Stress-Strain Measurements in Iontophoresis Transepithelial Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking
Authors: Vinciguerra Paolo , Mencucci Rita , Romano Vito , Spoerl Eberhard , Camesasca Fabrizio I. , Favuzza Eleonora , Azzolini Claudio , Mastropasqua Rodolfo , Vinciguerra Riccardo
Published: September 2014

Purpose.To compare biomechanical effect, riboflavin penetration and distribution in transepithelial corneal collagen cross-linking with iontophoresis (I-CXL), with standard cross linking (S-CXL) and current transepithelial protocol (TE-CXL).Materials and Methods.The study was divided into two different sections, considering, respectively, rabbit and human cadaver corneas. In both sections corneas were divided according to imbibition protocols and irradiation power. Imaging mass spectrometry by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization (MALDI-IMS) and stress-strain measurements were used. Forty-eight rabbit and twelve human cadaver corneas were evaluated.Results.MALDI-IMS showed a deep riboflavin penetration throughout the corneal layers with I-CXL, with a roughly lower concentration in the deepest layers when compared to S-CXL, whereas with TE-CXL penetration was considerably less. In rabbits, there was a significant increase (by 71.9% andP=0.05) in corneal rigidity after I-CXL, when compared to controls. In humans, corneal rigidity increase was not significantly different among the subgroups.Conclusions.In rabbits, I-CXL induced a significant increase in corneal stiffness as well as better riboflavin penetration when compared to controls and TE-CXL but not to S-CXL. Stress-strain in human corneas did not show significant differences among techniques, possibly because of the small sample size of groups. In conclusion, I-CXL could be a valid alternative to S-CXL for riboflavin delivery in CXL, preserving the epithelium.
Thrombus Formation on Amplatzer Septal Occluder Device: Pinning Down the Cause
Authors: Belgrave Kevin , Cardozo Shaun
Published: September 2014

The use of interatrial septal occluder devices is an efficacious and less invasive alternative to open heart surgery for the repair of atrial septal defects. These devices present significant risks including thrombus formation on the device and subsequent thromboembolic events. We present a case of a woman who presented with stroke-like symptoms five years after PFO closure. The patient was subsequently found to have a thrombus on the occluder device. Our case highlights the risk of such thrombolic phenomenon and the risk associated with the device structure as a nidus for such a complication.
Boost IORT in Breast Cancer: Body of Evidence
Authors: Sedlmayer Felix , Reitsamer Roland , Fussl Christoph , Ziegler Ingrid , Zehentmayr Franz , Deutschmann Heinz , Kopp Peter , Fastner Gerd
Published: September 2014

The term IORT (intraoperative radiotherapy) is currently used for various techniques that show decisive differences in dose delivery. The largest evidence for boost IORT preceding whole breast irradiation (WBI) originates from intraoperative electron treatments with single doses around 10 Gy, providing outstandingly low local recurrence rates in any risk constellation also at long term analyses. Compared to other boost methods, an intraoperative treatment has evident advantages as follows.Precision.Direct visualisation of the tumour bed during surgery guarantees an accurate dose delivery. This fact has additionally gained importance in times of primary reconstruction techniques after lumpectomy to optimise cosmetic outcome. IORT is performed before breast tissue is mobilised for plastic purposes.Cosmesis.As a consequence of direct tissue exposure without distension by hematoma/seroma, IORT allows for small treatment volumes and complete skin sparing, both having a positive effect on late tissue tolerance and, hence, cosmetic appearance.Patient Comfort.Boost IORT marginally prolongs the surgical procedure, while significantly shortening postoperative radiotherapy. Its combination with a 3-week hypofractionated external beam radiotherapy to the whole breast (WBI) is presently tested in the HIOB trial (hypofractionated WBI preceded by IORT electron boost), a prospective multicenter trial of the International Society of Intraoperative Radiotherapy (ISIORT).
The Supplying Chain Scheduling with the Cost Constraint and Subcontracting
Authors: Sun Guo , Yu Liying
Published: September 2014

We propose an analytical scheduling model with subcontracting. Each job can be processed either on a single machine at a manufacturer or outsourced to a subcontractor, possibly at a higher cost. For a given set of jobs, the decisions the manufacturer needs to make include the selection of a subset of jobs to be outsourced and the schedule of all the jobs. The objective functions are to minimize the commonly used scheduling measures, subject to a constraint on the total production and subcontracting cost. We show the NP-hardiness for the problems with different objective functions and develop dynamic programming algorithms for solving them.
Tetramethylpyrazine Protects against Hydrogen Peroxide‐Provoked Endothelial Dysfunction in Isolated Rat Aortic Rings: Implications for Antioxidant Therapy of Vascular Diseases
Authors: Ni Xiaojia , Wong Siu Ling , Wong Chi Ming , Lau Chi Wai , Shi Xiaogeng , Cai Yefeng , Huang Yu
Published: September 2014

Background and Objectives. Oxidative stress can initiate endothelial dysfunction and atherosclerosis. This study evaluated whether tetramethylpyrazine (TMP), the predominant active ingredient in Rhizoma Ligustici Wallichii (chuanxiong), prevents endothelial dysfunction in a rat model of oxidative stress. Methods. Isolated rat aortic rings were pretreated with various drugs before the induction of endothelial dysfunction by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Changes in isometric tension were then measured in acetylcholine‐ (ACh‐) relaxed rings. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) expression was evaluated in the rings by Western blotting, and superoxide anion () content was assessed in primary rat aortic endothelial cells by dihydroethidium‐ (DHE‐) mediated fluorescence microscopy. Results. ACh‐induced endothelium‐dependent relaxation (EDR) was disrupted by H2O2 in endothelium‐intact aortic rings. H2O2‐impaired relaxation was ameliorated by acute pretreatment with low concentrations of TMP, as well as by pretreatment with catalase and the NADPH oxidase inhibitors, apocynin and diphenyleneiodonium (DPI). TMP, apocynin, and DPI also reduced accumulation in endothelial cells,but TMP failed to alter eNOS expression in aortic rings incubated with H2O2. Conclusions. TMP safeguards against oxidative stress‐induced endothelial dysfunction, suggesting that the agent might find therapeutic utility in the management of vascular diseases. However, TMP’s role in inhibiting NADPH oxidase and its vascular‐protective mechanism of action requires further investigation.
Numerical Study on the Effect of Tube Rows on the Heat Transfer Characteristic of Dimpled Fin
Authors: Wu Xuehong , Feng Lihua , Liu Dandan , Meng Hao , Lu Yanli
Published: September 2014

The dimpled fin has excellent heat transfer performance and has attracted a lot of attention to apply on the fin and tube heat exchanger. A study presents to investigate the effects of number of tube rows on the air-side heat transfer characteristics of dimpled fin for velocity ranging from 1 to 3 m/s. The Q/Δ P and Q/((Δ P × V)) are used to evaluate the heat transfer performance of the heat exchanger. The results show that the dimpled arrangement can change the mainstream direction, increase the disturbance, and enhance the heat transfer. With the increase of the number of tube rows, the average Nusselt number decreases and Q/Δ P and Q/((Δ P × V)) increase gradually. Compared with the multipipe tube rows, the performance of two-row tube is better.
Design and Development of Turbodrill Blade Used in Crystallized Section
Authors: Yu Wang , Jianyi Yao , Zhijun Li
Published: September 2014

Turbodrill is a type of hydraulic axial turbomachinery which has a multistage blade consisting of stators and rotors. In this paper, a turbodrill blade that can be applied in crystallized section under high temperature and pressure conditions is developed. On the basis of Euler equations, the law of energy transfer is analyzed and the output characteristics of turbodrill blade are proposed. Moreover, considering the properties of the layer and the bole-hole conditions, the radical size, the geometrical dimension, and the blade profile are optimized. A computational model of a single-stage blade is built on theANSYS CFDinto which the three-dimensional model of turbodrill is input. In light of the distribution law of the pressure and flow field, the functions of the turbodrill blade are improved and optimized. The turbodrill blade optimization model was verified based on laboratory experiments. The results show that the design meets the deep hard rock mineral exploration application and provides good references for further study.
Active Power Filter DC Bus Voltage Piecewise Reaching Law Variable Structure Control
Authors: Liu Baolian , Ding Zujun , Zhao Huanyu , Jin Defei
Published: September 2014

The DC bus voltage stability control is one key technology to ensure that Active Power Filter (APF) operates stably. The external disturbances such as power grid and load fluctuation and the system parameters changing may affect the stability of APF DC bus voltage and the normal operation of APF. The mathematical model of DC bus voltage is established according to power balance principle and a DC bus voltage piecewise reaching law variable structure control algorithm is proposed to solve the above problem, and the design method is given. The simulation and experiment results proved that the proposed variable structure control algorithm can eliminate the chattering problem existing in traditional variable structure control effectively, is insensitive to system disturbance, and has good robustness and fast dynamic response speed and stable DC bus voltage with small fluctuation. The above advantages ensure the compensation effect of APF.
Efficacy of Acupuncture in Reducing Preoperative Anxiety: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Bae Hyojeong , Bae Hyunsu , Min Byung-Il , Cho Seunghun
Published: September 2014

Background. Acupuncture has been shown to reduce preoperative anxiety in several previous randomized controlled trials (RCTs). In order to assess the preoperative anxiolytic efficacy of acupuncture therapy, this study conducted a meta‐analysis of an array of appropriate studies. Methods. Four electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL, and CINAHL) were searched up to February 2014. In the meta‐analysis data were included from RCT studies in which groups receiving preoperative acupuncture treatment were compared with control groups receiving a placebo for anxiety. Results. Fourteen publications (N = 1,034) were included. Six publications, using the State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory‐State (STAI‐S), reported that acupuncture interventions led to greater reductions in preoperative anxiety relative to sham acupuncture (mean difference = 5.63, P < .00001, 95% CI [4.14, 7.11]). Further eight publications, employing visual analogue scales (VAS), also indicated significant differences in preoperative anxiety amelioration between acupuncture and sham acupuncture (mean difference = 19.23, P < .00001, 95% CI [16.34, 22.12]). Conclusions. Acupuncture therapy aiming at reducing preoperative anxiety has a statistically significant effect relative to placebo or nontreatment conditions. Well‐designed and rigorous studies that employ large sample sizes are necessary to corroborate this finding.
Histological and Radiological Analyses of a Maxillary Sinus Lift with Extensive Drilling of the Schneider Membrane Using Xenogeneic Bone
Authors: Romano Marcelo M. , Smanio Júlia A. , Ferreira Lorraine B. , Arana-Chavez Victor E. , Soares Mário S.
Published: September 2014

The objective of this study is to report a clinical case of maxillary sinus with lyophilized, xenogeneic graft, in which, despite a large perforation of the sinus membrane, the surgery was not aborted and the results of histological examinations indicate bone neoformation in the surgical area.Results. This case showed that the biomaterials evaluated in this study and the procedure used to place them proved to be biocompatible and presented high osteogenic potential, leading to a successful surgery and osseointegration implant.Conclusion. Positioning Schneider’s membrane and filling it with the graft biomaterial helped to achieve the desired osteoconduction and proliferation of bone cells even though the patient had a large perforation of the sinus membrane.
Biosynthesis of Silver Nanoparticles UsingAegle marmelos(Bael) Fruit Extract and Its Application to Prevent Adhesion of Bacteria: A Strategy to Control Microfouling
Authors: Nithya Deva Krupa A. , Raghavan Vimala
Published: September 2014

Marine biofilms formed due to adhesion of bacteria and other microorganisms on submerged surfaces are generally considered to be a major form of microfouling. Subsequent attachment of larvae of higher organisms like barnacles, mussels, and so forth, on marine biofilms, causes macrofouling. Several approaches have been used to prevent micro- and macrofouling. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are known to exhibit strong inhibitory and antimicrobial activity. Biological synthesis of AgNPs is rapidly gaining importance due to its growing success. Hence, the present study is focused on the biosynthesis of AgNPs using fruit extract ofAegle marmelosand its characterization through UV-Vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffractometer (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and atomic force microscopy (AFM). Further isolation and identification of marine biofilm forming bacteria were carried out through 16S rDNA analysis. The antimicrofouling effect of the biosynthesized AgNPs was tested against marine biofilm forming bacteria and the results suggested that it could effectively inhibit biofilm formation. This preliminary study has proved that AgNPs may be used as antimicrofouling agent for the prevention of biofouling in the early stages.
Stochastically Ultimate Boundedness and Global Attraction of Positive Solution for a Stochastic Competitive System
Authors: Guo Shengliang , Liu Zhijun , Xiang Huili
Published: September 2014

A stochastic competitive system is investigated. We first show that the positive solution of the above system does not explode to infinity in a finite time, and the existence and uniqueness of positive solution are discussed. Later, sufficient conditions for the stochastically ultimate boundedness of positive solution are derived. Also, with the help of Lyapunov function, sufficient conditions for the global attraction of positive solution are established. Finally, numerical simulations are presented to justify our theoretical results.
Fabrication and Characterization of Electrospun Polycaprolactone Blended with Chitosan‐Gelatin Complex Nanofibrous Mats
Authors: Qian Yongfang , Zhang Zhen , Zheng Laijiu , Song Ruoyuan , Zhao Yuping
Published: September 2014

Design and fabrication of nanofibrous scaffolds should mimic the native extracellular matrix. This study is aimed at investigating electrospinning of polycaprolactone (PCL) blended with chitosan‐gelatin complex. The morphologies were observed from scanning electron microscope. As‐spun blended mats had thinner fibers than pure PCL. X‐ray diffraction was used to analyze the degree of crystallinity. The intensity at two peaks at 2θ of 21° and 23.5° gradually decreased with the percentage of chitosan‐gelatin complex increasing. Moreover, incorporation of the complex could obviously improve the hydrophilicity of as‐spun blended mats. Mechanical properties of as‐spun nanofibrous mats were also tested. The elongation at break of fibrous mats increased with the PCL content increasing and the ultimate tensile strength varied with different weight ratios. The as‐spun mats had higher tensile strength when the weight ratio of PCL to CS‐Gel was 75/25 compared to pure PCL. Both as‐spun PCL scaffolds and PCL/CS‐Gel scaffolds supported the proliferation of porcine iliac endothelial cells, and PCL/CS‐Gel had better cell viability than pure PCL. Therefore, electrospun PCL/Chitosan‐gelatin nanofibrous mats with weight ratio of 75/25 have better hydrophilicity mechanical properties, and cell proliferation and thus would be a promising candidate for tissue engineering scaffolds.
Implementation Science in Cancer Prevention and Control: A Framework for Research and Programs in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Sivaram Sudha , Sanchez Michael A. , Rimer Barbara K. , Samet Jonathan M. , Glasgow Russell E.
Published: September 2014

Implementation science is a set of tools, principles, and methodologies that can be used to bring scientific evidence into action, improve health care quality and delivery, and improve public health. As the burden of cancer increases in low- and middle-income countries, it is important to plan cancer control programs that are both evidence based and delivered in ways that are feasible, cost-effective, contextually appropriate, and sustainable. This review presents a framework for using implementation science for cancer control planning and implementation and discusses potential areas of focus for research and programs in low- and middle-income countries interested in integrating research into practice and policy. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(11); 2273–84. ©2014 AACR.
Sex Steroid Hormone Metabolism in Relation to Risk of Aggressive Prostate Cancer
Authors: Black Amanda , Pinsky Paul F. , Grubb Robert L. , Falk Roni T. , Hsing Ann W. , Chu Lisa , Meyer Tamra , Veenstra Timothy D. , Xu Xia , Yu Kai , Ziegler Regina G. , Brinton Louise A. , Hoover Robert N. , Cook Michael B.
Published: September 2014

Background: The combined action of androgens and estrogens—specifically their balance—may play a role in prostate carcinogenesis, but existing evidence is sparse and inconsistent. We investigated associations between serum sex steroid hormones, including estrogen metabolites, and risk of aggressive prostate cancer.

Methods: In a case–control study nested within the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial cohort, we measured serum estrone, estradiol, and 13 estrogen metabolites, in the 2-, 4-, or 16-hydroxylation pathways, using an LC/MS-MS assay. Cases (n = 195) were non-Hispanic white men ages 55 to 70 years when diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer (stage III or IV and/or Gleason ≥7). Controls (n = 195) were non-Hispanic white men without prostate cancer who were frequency matched to cases by age and year at blood draw, and time since baseline screen. Only men with serum testosterone and sex hormone-binding globulin measured previously were eligible. Logistic regression models were used to estimate ORs and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI).

Results: Risk of aggressive prostate cancer was strongly inversely associated with estradiol:testosterone ratio (OR4th quartile vs. 1st = 0.27; 95% CI, 0.12–0.59, Ptrend = 0.003) and positively associated with 2:16α-hydroxyestrone ratio (OR4th quartile vs. 1st = 2.44; 95% CI, 1.34–4.45, Ptrend = 0.001). Individual estrogen metabolites were unrelated to risk.

Conclusions: Our findings suggest that sex steroid hormones, specifically the estrogen-androgen balance, may be important in the development of aggressive prostate cancer.

Impact: Improved understanding of the hormonal etiology of prostate cancer is critical for prevention and therapeutic interventions. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(11); 2374–82. ©2014 AACR.
RADical Response Puts an Exceptional Responder in CHKmate: A Synthetic Lethal Curative Response to DNA-Damaging Chemotherapy?
Authors: Peng Guang , Woodman Scott E. , Mills Gordon B.
Published: September 2014

Summary: In this issue of Cancer Discovery, AI-Ahmadie and colleagues identify a somatic mutation in the RAD50 gene as a likely contributing factor to an unusual curative response to systemic combination therapy employing the DNA-damaging agent irinotecan and a checkpoint kinase 1 inhibitor in a patient with recurrent, metastatic small-cell cancer. This study highlights the importance of in-depth analysis of exceptional responders to chemotherapy and targeted therapy in early-phase clinical trials and opens new avenues for developing cancer genome–based combination therapy to improve the efficacy of traditional chemotherapy through synthetically lethal interactions. Cancer Discov; 4(9); 988–90. ©2014 AACR.

See related article by AI-Ahmadie et al., p. 1014
A comparative study of satisfaction with the police in the United States and Australia
Authors: Dai Mengyan , Jiang Xin
Published: September 2014

This study comparatively examines three major models of citizens’ satisfaction with the police, using two similar community surveys on policing from Cincinnati, Ohio, USA and Queensland, Australia. It tests the wider applicability of the demographic model, the neighborhood condition model, and the prior contacts with police model and analyzes whether the effects of common determinants on citizens’ satisfaction remain the same across the two international samples. Results from a series of comparisons show that there is a substantial amount of similarity across statistical models for Cincinnati and Queensland, suggesting a general framework of citizens’ satisfaction with the police that could be generalized to other international contexts. Limitations and future directions of comparative research in this area are also discussed.