bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Immature Dentate Gyrus: An Endophenotype of Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: Hagihara Hideo , Takao Keizo , Walton Noah M. , Matsumoto Mitsuyuki , Miyakawa Tsuyoshi
Published: June 2013

Adequate maturation of neurons and their integration into the hippocampal circuit is crucial for normal cognitive function and emotional behavior, and disruption of this process could cause disturbances in mental health. Previous reports have shown that mice heterozygous for a null mutation inα-CaMKII, which encodes a key synaptic plasticity molecule, display abnormal behaviors related to schizophrenia and other psychiatric disorders. In these mutants, almost all neurons in the dentate gyrus are arrested at a pseudoimmature state at the molecular and electrophysiological levels, a phenomenon defined as “immature dentate gyrus (iDG).” To date, the iDG phenotype and shared behavioral abnormalities (including working memory deficit and hyperlocomotor activity) have been discovered in Schnurri-2 knockout, mutant SNAP-25 knock-in, and forebrain-specific calcineurin knockout mice. In addition, both chronic fluoxetine treatment and pilocarpine-induced seizures reverse the neuronal maturation, resulting in the iDG phenotype in wild-type mice. Importantly, an iDG-like phenomenon was observed in post-mortem analysis of brains from patients with schizophrenia/bipolar disorder. Based on these observations, we proposed that the iDG is a potential endophenotype shared by certain types of neuropsychiatric disorders. This review summarizes recent data describing this phenotype and discusses the data’s potential implication in elucidating the pathophysiology of neuropsychiatric disorders.
Estimation of Open Boundary Conditions Based on an Isopycnic-Coordinate Internal Tidal Model with Adjoint Assimilation Method
Authors: Gao Yanqiu , Jin Guangzhen , Chen Haibo , Lv Xianqing
Published: June 2013

The isopycnic-coordinate internal tidal model with adjoint assimilation method is developed into a three-layer version. Two groups of ideal experiments are carried out in order to investigate the estimation of spatially varying open boundary conditions (OBCs). In group 1, different independent point schemes (IPSs) are used to invert 6 kinds of prescribed distributions of OBCs. Results show that, after assimilation, the cost functions and their gradient norms are reduced by about 2 orders of magnitude and by about 1 order of magnitude, respectively; the mean absolute errors (MAEs) in OBCs and the vector differences of horizontal current are reduced by 1 order of magnitude and by more than 23.53% compared with the values before assimilation, respectively. The results demonstrate that the three-layered model has a good ability in estimating the spatially varying OBCs; the use of IPSs can effectively improve the estimation precision; fewer independent points are feasible when the distribution is simpler, and appropriately more independent points are required when the distribution is more complex. In group 2, by using the optimal IPSs in group 1, the model is also able to successfully invert the OBCs on a real topography in the Luzon Strait area. The results are important to the study of the internal tide in the South China Sea.
Restless Legs Syndrome as a Comorbidity in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Gjevre John A. , Taylor Gjevre Regina M.
Published: June 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multisystem disease with a complex immunologic pathophysiology. Likewise, sleep disorders can involve a complicated interplay between the neurologic pathways, immune system, and respiratory system. Recent studies have shown an elevated prevalence of sleep abnormalities in connective tissue disorders compared to the general population. Restless legs syndrome (RLS) may be present in up to 30% of RA patients. These findings may be related to cytokine release and other immunomodulatory responses. TNF-αlevels relate to sleep physiology and anti-TNF-αtherapy may improve sleep patterns. Most of the patients with this disorder can distinguish their RLS sensations from their arthritic symptoms. RLS is a common comorbidity seen with RA, and prompt recognition and treatment can improve patient quality of life.
Gastric ESD under Heparin Replacement at High-Risk Patients of Thromboembolism Is Technically Feasible but Has a High Risk of Delayed Bleeding: Osaka University ESD Study Group
Authors: Yoshio Toshiyuki , Nishida Tsutomu , Kawai Naoki , Yuguchi Kiyonori , Yamada Takuya , Yabuta Takamasa , Komori Masato , Yamaguchi Shinjiro , Kitamura Shinji , Iijima Hideki , Tsutsui Shusaku , Michida Tomoki , Mita Eiji , Tsujii Masahiko , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: June 2013

Objectives. Heparin replacement (HR) is often performed in patients with a high risk of thrombosis undergoing endoscopic procedures. However, information about the influence of HR is scarce. The aim of this study is to assess the clinical impact of HR for gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD).Methods. This is a retrospective study comprising approximately 1310 consecutive gastric neoplasms in 1250 patients, who underwent ESD in 5 institutes. We assessed the clinical findings and outcomes of ESD under HR, compared to ESD without HR as control.Results. A total of 24 EGC lesions in 24 patients were treated by ESD under HR. In the HR group, the complete en-bloc resection rate was 100%. The delayed bleeding rate was, however, higher in the HR group than in the controls (38% versus 4.6%). The timing of bleeding in the HR group was significantly later than in controls. In the control group, 209 patients discontinued antithrombotic therapy during perioperative period, and their delayed bleeding rate was not different from those without antithrombotic therapy (5.7% versus. 4.4%). A thromboembolic event was encountered in 1 patient under HR after delayed bleeding.Conclusion. ESD under HR is technically feasible but has a high risk of delayed bleeding.
Endothelin-1 Enriched Tumor Phenotype Predicts Breast Cancer Recurrence
Authors: Tamkus Deimante , Sikorskii Alla , Gallo Kathleen A. , Wiese David A. , Leece Cheryl , Madhukar Burra V. , Chivu Simona C. , Chitneni Shalini , Dimitrov Nikolay V.
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Breast cancer recurrence can develop years after primary treatment. Crosstalk between breast cancer cells and their stromal microenvironment may influence tumor progression. Our primary study aim was to determine whether endothelin-1 (ET-1) expression in tumor and stroma predicts breast cancer relapse. The secondary aim was to determine ET-1/endothelin receptor A (ETAR) role on signaling pathways and apoptosis in breast cancer. Experimental Design. Patients with histologically documented stages I–III invasive breast cancer were included in the study. ET-1 expression by immunohistochemistry (IHC) in tumor cells and stroma was analyzed. Association between ET-1 expression and clinical outcome was assessed using multivariate Cox proportional hazard model. Kaplan-Meier curves were used to estimate disease-free survival (DFS). In addition, the effect of ET-1/ETAR on signaling pathways and apoptosis was evaluated in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Results. With a median followup of 7 years, ET-1 non-enriched tumor phenotype had a significant association with favorable disease-free survival (HR=0.16; 95% CI 0.03–0.77; P value <0.02). ER negativity, advanced stage of disease and ET-1-enriched tumor phenotype were all associated with a higher risk for recurrence. Experimental study demonstrated that ET-1 stimulation promoted Akt activation in MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Furthermore, silencing of ETAR induced apoptosis in both hormone receptor negative and hormone receptor positive breast cancer cells. Conclusions. We found ET-1 expression in tumor and stroma to be an independent prognostic marker for breast cancer recurrence. Prospective studies are warranted to examine whether ET-1 expression in tumor/stroma could assist in stratifying patients with hormone receptor positive breast cancer for adjuvant therapy.
Out-of-Equilibrium Dynamics of the Bose-Hubbard Model
Authors: Kennett Malcolm P.
Published: June 2013

The Bose-Hubbard model is the simplest model of interacting bosons on a lattice. It has recently been the focus of much attention due to the realization of this model with cold atoms in an optical lattice. The ability to tune parameters in the Hamiltonian as a function of time in cold atom systems has opened up the possibility of studying out-of-equilibrium dynamics, including crossing the quantum critical region of the model in a controlled way. In this paper, I give a brief introduction to the Bose Hubbard model, and its experimental realization and then give an account of theoretical and experimental efforts to understand out-of-equilibrium dynamics in this model, focusing on quantum quenches, both instantaneous and of finite duration. I discuss slow dynamics that have been observed theoretically and experimentally for some quenches from the superfluid phase to the Mott insulating phase and the picture of two timescales, one for fast local equilibration and another for slow global equilibration, that appears to characterize this situation. I also discuss the theoretical and experimental observation of the Lieb-Robinson bounds for a variety of quenches and the Kibble-Zurek mechanism in quenches from the Mott insulator to superfluid. I conclude with a discussion of open questions and future directions.
Type 2 Diabetic Patients with Ischemic Stroke: Decreased Insulin Sensitivity and Decreases in Antioxidant Enzyme Activity Are Related to Different Stroke Subtypes
Authors: Jotic Aleksandra , Covickovic Sternic Nadezda , Kostic Vladimir S. , Lalic Katarina , Milicic Tanja , Mijajlovic Milija , Lukic Ljiljana , Civcic Milorad , Colak Emina , Macesic Marija , Seferovic Jelena P. , Aleksic Sandra , Lalic Nebojsa M.
Published: June 2013

We analyzed (a) insulin sensitivity (IS) and (b) glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), glutathione reductase (GR), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) antioxidant enzyme activity in type 2 diabetic (T2D) patients with atherothrombotic infarction (ATI) (group A), lacunar infarction (LI) (B), or without stroke (C) and in nondiabetics with ATI (D), LI (E), or without stroke (F). ATI and LI were confirmed by brain imaging IS levels were determined by minimal model (Si index), and the enzyme activity by spectrophotometry. In T2D patients, Si was lower in A and B versus C (1.14±0.58,1.00±0.26versus3.14±0.62 min−1/mU/l × 104,P<0.001) and in nondiabetics in D and E versus F (3.38±0.77,3.03±0.72versus6.03±1.69 min−1/mU/l × 104,P<0.001). Also, GSH-Px and GR activities were lower in A and B versus C (GSH-Px:21.96±3.56,  22.51±1.23versus25.12±1.67; GR:44.37±3.58,  43.50±2.39versus48.58±3.67 U/gHb;P<0.001) and in D and E versus F (GSH-Px:24.75±3.02,  25.57±1.92versus28.56±3.91; GR:48.27±6.81,  49.17±6.24versus53.67±3.96 U/gHb;P<0.001). Decreases in Si and GR were significantly related to both ATI and LI in T2D. Our results showed that decreased IS and impaired antioxidant enzymes activity influence ischemic stroke subtypes in T2D. The influence of insulin resistance might be exerted on the level of glutathione-dependent antioxidant enzymes.
Oscillation and Nonoscillation of Asymptotically Almost Periodic Half-Linear Difference Equations
Authors: Veselý Michal , Hasil Petr
Published: June 2013

We analyse half-linear difference equations with asymptotically almost periodic coefficients. Using the adapted Riccati transformation, we prove that these equations are conditionally oscillatory. We explicitly find a constant, determined by the coefficients of a given equation, which is the borderline between the oscillation and the nonoscillation of the equation. We also mention corollaries of our result with several examples.
Internalizing Knowledge and Changing Attitudes to Female Genital Cutting/Mutilation
Authors: Lien Inger-Lise , Schultz Jon-Håkon
Published: June 2013

The process of paradigmatic attitudinal change has been analyzed by the use of multimethods and multileveled internalization theories. Forty-six informants (a network of activists and a group of Gambian women) have described their change of attitude to female genital cutting. This study shows that internalizing a packet of information as adults, that contradicts an old schema of knowledge internalized as children, can be experienced as epistemologically very painful. Activists in Norway who have changed their attitude to FGC have got information from different educational institutions, from seminars and conferences, from work as interpreters in hospitals, and from discussions among families and friends. Information can be received, listened to and subsequently discarded. In order to design FGC-abandonment campaigns, the importance of the internalization process in order for the individual to make an attitudinal change must be understood.
Ocotillol Enhanced the Antitumor Activity of Doxorubicin via p53-Dependent Apoptosis
Authors: Wang Hongbo , Yu Pengfei , Bai Jing , Zhang Jianqiao , Kong Liang , Zhang Fangxi , Du Guangying , Pei Shiqian , Zhang Lixia , Jiang Yongtao , Tian Jingwei , Fu Fenghua
Published: June 2013

The use of doxorubicin (Dox) was severely constrained by dose-dependent side effects, which might be attenuated by combining a “sensitizer” to decrease its cumulative dosage. In this study, it was investigated whether ocotillol could enhance the antiproliferation activity of Dox. MTT assays and xenograft tumor model were firstly conducted to evaluate the effect of ocotillol on the antitumor activity of Dox. Flow cytometry and Hoechst staining assays were then performed to assess cell apoptosis. Western blot and real-time PCR were finally used to detect the expression of p53 and its target genes. Our results showed ocotillol to enhance Dox-induced cell death in p53 wild-type cancer cells. Compared with Dox alone, Dox with ocotillol (Dox-O) could induce much more cell apoptosis and activate p53 to a much greater degree, which in turn markedly increased expression of proapoptosis genes. The enhanced cytotoxic activity was partially blocked by pifithrin-α, which might be through attenuating the increased apoptosis. Furthermore, ocotillol significantly increased the antitumor activity of Dox in A549 xenograft tumor in nude mice. These findings indicated that ocotillol could potentiate the cytotoxic effect of Dox through p53-dependent apoptosis and suggested that coadministration of ocotillol with Dox might be a potential therapeutic strategy.
A Critical Review of Stall Control Techniques in Industrial Fans
Authors: Bianchi Stefano , Corsini Alessandro , Sheard Anthony G. , Tortora Cecilia
Published: June 2013

This paper reviews modelling and interpretation advances of industrial fan stall phenomena, related stall detection methods, and control technologies. Competing theories have helped engineers refine fan stability and control technology. With the development of these theories, three major issues have emerged. In this paper, we first consider the interplay between aerodynamic perturbations and instability inception. An understanding of the key physical phenomena that occurs with stall inception is critical to alleviate stall by design or through active or passive control methods. We then review the use of passive and active control strategies to improve fan stability. Whilst historically compressor design engineers have used passive control techniques, recent technologies have prompted them to install high-response stall detection and control systems that provide industrial fan designers with new insight into how they may detect and control stall. Finally, the paper reviews the methods and prospects for early stall detection to complement control systems with a warning capability. Engineers may use an effective real-time stall warning system to extend a fan’s operating range by allowing it to operate safely at a reduced stall margin. This may also enable the fan to operate in service at a more efficient point on its characteristic.
Interplay between Misplaced Müllerian-Derived Stem Cells and Peritoneal Immune Dysregulation in the Pathogenesis of Endometriosis
Authors: Laganà Antonio Simone , Sturlese Emanuele , Retto Giovanni , Sofo Vincenza , Triolo Onofrio
Published: June 2013

In the genetic regulation of Müllerian structures development, a key role is played by Hoxa and Wnt clusters, because they lead the transcription of different genes according to the different phases of the organogenesis, addressing correctly cell-to-cell interactions, allowing, finally, the physiologic morphogenesis. Accumulating evidence is suggesting that dysregulation of Wnt and/or Hox genes may affect cell migration during organogenesis and differentiation of Müllerian structures of the female reproductive tract, with possible dislocation and dissemination of primordial endometrial stem cells in ectopic regions, which have high plasticity to differentiation. We hypothesize that during postpubertal age, under the influence of different stimuli, these misplaced and quiescent ectopic endometrial cells could acquire new phenotype, biological functions, and immunogenicity. So, these kinds of cells may differentiate, specializing in epithelium, glands, and stroma to form a functional ectopic endometrial tissue. This may provoke a breakdown in the peritoneal cavity homeostasis, with the consequent processes of immune alteration, documented by peripheral mononuclear cells recruitment and secretion of inflammatory cytokines in early phases and of angiogenic and fibrogenic cytokines in the late stages of the disease.
Salivary Markers of Oxidative Stress and Their Relation to Periodontal and Dental Status in Children
Authors: Tóthová L’ubomíra , Celecová Viera , Celec Peter
Published: June 2013

Background: Previous studies have shown that salivary thiobarbituric acid reactive substances are related to the periodontal status in adults. Such an analysis has not been done on children yet. The aim of our study was to analyze salivary markers of oxidative stress in relation to periodontal and dental status in children.

Methods: The periodontal and dental status of 82 consecutive pediatric dental patients was assessed. The oral hygiene index (OHI), the papillary bleeding index (PBI) and the caries index (CI) were assessed as clinical parameters. Markers of oxidative stress and antioxidant status were measured in whole saliva samples.

Results: Multivariate analysis of covariance showed that the variability of PBI explains 10.9% of the variance of salivary thiobarbituric acid reacting substances (TBARS). Advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP) were related to CI (eta 8.6%). Measures of antioxidant status (total antioxidant capacity and ferric reducing ability of saliva) were partially determined by OHI (13.6% and 7.2%) and PBI (16.9% and 7.9%).

Conclusions: Antioxidant status in saliva is related to oral hygiene and periodontal status. Salivary TBARS are a potential sensitive marker of periodontitis in children, similarly to adults, at least on a population level. Salivary AOPP are related to caries. Potential diagnostic value of the analyzed markers should be analyzed in further interventional studies.
Treatment of Nonvariceal Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage by Transcatheter Embolization
Authors: Ali Muhammad , Ul Haq Tanveer , Salam Basit , Beg Madiha , Sayani Raza , Azeemuddin Muhammad
Published: June 2013

Purpose. To investigate the sensitivity of mesenteric angiography, technical success of hemostasis, clinical success rate, and complications of transcatheter embolization for the treatment of acute nonvariceal gastrointestinal hemorrhage.Material and Methods. A retrospective review of 200 consecutive patients who underwent mesenteric arteriography for acute nonvariceal gastrointestinal hemorrhage between February 2004 and February 2011 was done.Results. Of 200 angiographic studies, 114 correctly revealed the bleeding site with mesenteric angiography. 47 (41%) patients had upper gastrointestinal hemorrhage and 67 (59%) patients had lower gastrointestinal hemorrhage. Out of these 114, in 112 patients (98%) technical success was achieved with immediate cessation of bleeding. 81 patients could be followed for one month. Clinical success was achieved in 72 out of these 81 patients (89%). Seven patients rebled. 2 patients developed bowel ischemia. Four patients underwent surgery for bowel ischemia or rebleeding.Conclusion. The use of therapeutic transcatheter embolization for treatment of acute gastrointestinal hemorrhage is highly successful and relatively safe with 98% technical success and 2.4% postembolization ischemia in our series. In 89% of cases it was definitive without any further intervention.
Nutritionally Mediated Oxidative Stress and Inflammation
Authors: Muñoz Alexandra , Costa Max
Published: June 2013

There are many sources of nutritionally mediated oxidative stress that trigger inflammatory cascades along short and long time frames. These events are primarily mediated via NFκB. On the short-term scale postprandial inflammation is characterized by an increase in circulating levels of IL-6 and TNF-αand is mirrored on the long-term by proinflammatory gene expression changes in the adipocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) of obese individuals. Specifically the upregulation ofCCL2/MCP-1,CCL3/MIP-1α,CCL4/MIP-1β,CXCL2/MIP-2α, andCXCL3/MIP-2βis noted because these changes have been observed in both adipocytes and PBMC of obese humans. In comparing numerous human intervention studies it is clear that pro-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory consumption choices mediate gene expression in humans adipocytes and peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Arachidonic acid and saturated fatty acids (SFAs) both demonstrate an ability to increase pro-inflammatory IL-8 along with numerous other inflammatory factors including IL-6, TNFα, IL-1β, and CXCL1 for arachidonic acid and IGB2 and CTSS for SFA. Antioxidant rich foods including olive oil, fruits, and vegetables all demonstrate an ability to lower levels of IL-6 in PBMCs. Thus, dietary choices play a complex role in the mediation of unavoidable oxidative stress and can serve to exacerbate or dampen the level of inflammation.
Association between RAS Gene Polymorphisms (ACE I/D, AGT M235T) and Henoch-Schönlein Purpura in a Turkish Population
Authors: Nalbantoglu Sinem , Tabel Yılmaz , Mir Sevgi , Serdaroğlu Erkin , Berdeli Afig
Published: June 2013

Henoch-Schönlein purpura (HSP) is a small-vessel vasculitis of autoimmune hypersensitivity, and renin-angiotensin system (RAS) regulates vascular homeostasis and inflammation with activation of cytokine release. Thus, we aimed to investigate the association between HSP andACE I/DandAGT M235Tpolymorphisms. Genotyping was determined by allele specific PCR and PCR-RFLP. We obtained a significant difference in genotype distribution (p= 0.003) and allele frequencies (p< 0.001) ofACE I/Dpolymorphism between patients and controls, while no significant association was detected in genotype distribution (p> 0.05) and allele frequencies (p> 0.05) of theAGT M235Tpolymorphism. Risk assessment showed significant risk for HSP in the subjects both with the ID + DD genotype (p= 0.019, OR: 2.288, 95% CI: 1.136–4.609) and D allele (OR: D vs. I: 2.0528, 95% CI: 1.3632–3.0912,p= 0.001) while no significant risk was obtained for HSP in the subjects both with the MT + TT genotype (p= 0.312, OR: 1.3905, 95% CI: 0.7326–2.6391) and T allele (OR: T vs. M: 1.065, 95% CI: 0.729–1.557,p= 0.743). Furthermore, when patients were stratified by the presence of certain systemic complications of HSP, no significant association was detected withACE I/D, andAGT M235Tpolymorphisms. Our findings suggest thatACE I/Dpolymorphism is significantly associated with HSP susceptibility.
A Humidity Sensor Based on Silver Nanoparticles Thin Film Prepared by Electrostatic Spray Deposition Process
Authors: Thiwawong Thutiyaporn , Onlaor Korakot , Tunhoo Benchapol
Published: June 2013

In this work, thin film of silver nanoparticles for humidity sensor application was deposited by electrostatic spray deposition technique. The influence of the deposition times on properties of films was studied. The crystal structures of sample films, their surface morphology, and optical properties have been investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), and UV-VIS spectrophotometer, respectively. The crystalline structure of silver nanoparticles thin film was found in the orientation of (100) and (200) planes of cubic structure at diffraction angles 2θ  =  38.2° and 44.3°, respectively. Moreover, the silver nanoparticles thin films humidity sensor was fabricated onto the interdigitated electrodes. The sensor exhibited the humidity adsorption and desorption properties. The sensing mechanisms of the device were also elucidated by complex impedance analysis.
Petroleum Pumps’ Current and Vibration Signatures Analysis Using Wavelet Coherence Technique
Authors: Shnibha Rmdan , Albarbar Alhussein
Published: June 2013

Vibration analysis is widely used for rotating machinery diagnostics; however measuring vibration of operational oil well pumps is not possible. The pump’s driver’s current signatures may provide condition-related information without the need for an access to the pump itself. This paper investigates the degree of relationship between the pump’s driver’s current signatures and its induced vibration. This relationship between the driver’s current signatures (DCS) and its vibration signatures (DVS) is studied by calculating magnitude-squared coherence and phase coherence parameters at a certain frequency band using continuous wavelet transform (CWT). The CWT coherence-based technique allows better analysis of temporal evolution of the frequency content of dynamic signals and areas in the time-frequency plane where the two signals exhibit common power or consistent phase behaviour indicating a relationship between the signals. This novel approach is validated by experimental data acquired from 3 kW petroleum pump’s driver. Both vibration and current signatures were acquired under different speed and load conditions. The outcomes of this research suggest the use of DCS analysis as reliable and inexpensive condition monitoring tool, which could be implemented for oil pumps, real-time monitoring associated with condition-based maintenance (CBM) program.
CD99 and HLA-II Immunostaining in Breast Cancer Tissue and Their Correlation with Lymph Node Metastasis
Authors: Baccar Amal , Ferchichi Imen , Troudi Wafa , Marrakchi Raja , Ben Hmida Naziha , Jebini Sondes , Mrad Karima , Ben Romdhane Khaled , Benammar Elgaaied Amel
Published: June 2013

In an attempt to better unfold the antitumor immune response and invasion strategies perused by tumor cells, markers such as CD99 and HLA-II have been stained in breast tumors, some of them turned out to be important for prognosis and its outcome. CD99 is involved in the intracellular transport of HLA-II proteins. The expression of HLA-II and CD99 molecules has been demonstrated in a broader range of neoplastic tissues, including some epithelial tumors. In the present work, we stained CD99 and HLA-II in breast malignant and non-malignant tissues sections obtained from biopsies resected surgically from 80 Tunisian women. Data implied that CD99 marks malignant tissue significantly as compared to non-malignant breast tissue. HLA-II staining allowed determining the correlation between breast cancer and HLA-II with cytoplasmic localization. CD99 and HLA-II immunostaining was also examined in correlation with two of the most important breast cancer prognostication in routine clinical practice, the lymph node stage and the histological assessment. Results let suggest that CD99+HLA-II–is a marker of worst prognostic since this phenotype is strongly linked to lymph node metastasis in breast cancer.
Mortality Associated with Influenza in Tropics, State of São Paulo, Brazil, from 2002 to 2011: The Pre-Pandemic, Pandemic, and Post-Pandemic Periods
Authors: Freitas André Ricardo Ribas , Francisco Priscila M. S. Bergamo , Donalisio Maria Rita
Published: June 2013

The impact of the seasonal influenza and 2009 AH1N1 pandemic influenza on mortality is not yet completely understood, particularly in tropical and subtropical countries. The trends of influenza related mortality rate in different age groups and different outcomes on a area in tropical and subtropical climate with more than 41 million people (State of São Paulo, Brazil), were studied from 2002 to 2011 were studied. Serfling-type regression analysis was performed using weekly mortality registries and virological data obtained from sentinel surveillance. The prepandemic years presented a well-defined seasonality during winter and a clear relationship between activity of AH3N2 and increase of mortality in all ages, especially in individuals older than 60 years. The mortality due to pneumonia and influenza and respiratory causes associated with 2009 pandemic influenza in the age groups 0–4 years and older than 60 was lower than the previous years. Among people aged 5–19 and 20–59 years the mortality was 2.6 and 4.4 times higher than that in previous periods, respectively. The mortality in all ages was higher than the average of the previous years but was equal mortality in epidemics of AH3N2. The 2009 pandemic influenza mortality showed significant differences compared to other years, especially considering the age groups most affected.
Quality Attributes of Fresh‐Cut Coconut after Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Pasteurization
Authors: Ferrentino Giovanna , Belscak-Cvitanovic Ana , Komes Drazenka , Spilimbergo Sara
Published: June 2013

The impact of supercritical CO2 (SC‐CO2) process on the quality attributes of fresh‐cut coconut has been investigated to establish the acceptability of SC‐CO2 treated products by the consumers. Two process conditions, previously identified as optimal to reduce the microbial content of the product, were studied: 12 MPa, 40°C, 30 min and 12 MPa, 45°C, 15 min. The results highlighted that both conditions induced some effects on product attributes. After 30 min of treatment at 12 MPa and 40°C a decrease of lightness (8%), pH (13%), fat content (24%), total phenol content (29%), flavonoid compounds (49%), antioxidant capacity (30%) and an increase of dry matter (11%) and titratable acidity (51.1%) were observed while polyphenol oxidase (PPO) exhibited 35% and 98.5% inactivation. Peroxidase enzyme activity increased by 77.8% and 30.4% at 12 MPa, 40°C, 30 min and 12 MPa, 45°C, 15 min, respectively. Sensory evaluations revealed no significant differences in appearance, texture, taste, and aroma of treated fresh‐cut coconut compared to the untreated. The study confirms the feasibility of SC‐CO2 process for the pasteurization of fresh fruits with a firm structure and opens the door to the possibility of exploiting such a technology at industrial level.
Consensus of Continuous-Time Multiagent Systems with General Linear Dynamics and Nonuniform Sampling
Authors: Gao Yanping , Liu Bo , Zuo Min , Jiang Tongqiang , Yu Junyan
Published: June 2013

This paper studies the consensus problem of multiple agents with general linear continuous-time dynamics. It is assumed that the information transmission among agents is intermittent; namely, each agent can only obtain the information of other agents at some discrete times, where the discrete time intervals may not be equal. Some sufficient conditions for consensus in the cases of state feedback and static output feedback are established, and it is shown that if the controller gain and the upper bound of discrete time intervals satisfy certain linear matrix inequality, then consensus can be reached. Simulations are performed to validate the theoretical results.
Lack of Adjuvant Radiotherapy May Increase Risk of Retropharyngeal Node Recurrence in Patients with Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Head and Neck after Transoral Robotic Surgery
Authors: Mourad Waleed F. , Blakaj Dukagjin M. , Kabarriti Rafi , Young Rebekah , Shourbaji Rania A. , Glanzman Jonathan , Patel Shyamal , Yaparpalvi Ravindra , Kalnicki Shalom , Garg Madhur K.
Published: June 2013

Purpose. Transoral robotic surgery (TORS) has increased in popularity in the management of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck. However, TORS does not address the neck or retropharyngeal nodes (RPN). In the current report, we highlight the impact of the lack of adjuvant radiotherapy on RPN recurrence after TORS.Materials and Methods. A 58-year-old Caucasian male presented with squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck of unknown primary. He was offered radiotherapy as a definitive management for clinical stage T0N2aM0, stage IVA, but he opted to left neck dissection. Follow-up PET-CT scan revealed recurrence in the left base of tongue and right level II lymph node. He was offered radiotherapy which he declined and opted to TORS and right neck dissection. Follow-up PET-CT scan showed recurrence in left RPN for which he underwent salvage concurrent chemoradiotherapy to 70 Gy.Results. After a followup of 9 months from the date of salvage chemoradiotherapy completion, the patient is with no evidence of disease.Conclusions. TORS followed by adjuvant radiotherapy seems reasonable in the context of squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck due to the odds of RPN involvement. Further reports are warranted to optimize post-TORS adjuvant treatment.
A Multilevel Examination of Peer Victimization and Bullying Preventions in Schools
Authors: Jeong Seokjin , Lee Byung Hyun
Published: June 2013

The goal of this study is twofold: (i) to develop an explanatory model to examine the relationship between school environment/climate and peer victimization and (ii) to determine whether previous models of preventive strategies in a single school or district could be expanded to the nationally representative sample of adolescents across multiple schools. The analyses in the current study are based on data from the Health Behavior in School-Aged Children (HBSC) 2005-2006 US study, and the sample consists of 7,001 students from 195 different schools. The findings reveal that students attending schools in which bullying prevention programs are implemented are more likely to have experienced peer victimization, compared to those attending schools without bullying prevention. Study limitations and implications for future research are discussed.
The Use of Plasma and Urine Neutrophil Gelatinase Associated Lipocalin (NGAL) and Cystatin C in Early Diagnosis of Septic Acute Kidney Injury in Critically Ill Patients
Authors: Aydoğdu Müge , Gürsel Gül , Sancak Banu , Yeni Serpil , Sarı Gülçin , Taşyürek Seçil , Türk Murat , Yüksel Seher , Senes Mehmet , Özis Türkan Nadir
Published: June 2013

Aim: To assess and compare the roles of plasma and urine concentrations of neutrophil gelatinase associated lipocalin (NGAL) and Cystatin C for early diagnosis of septic acute kidney injury (AKI) in adult critically ill patients.

Methods: Patients were divided into three groups as sepsis-non AKI, sepsis-AKI and non sepsis-non AKI. Plasma samples for NGAL and Cystatin C were determined on admission and on alternate days and urinary samples were collected for every day until ICU discharge.

Results: One hundred fifty one patients were studied; 66 in sepsis-non AKI, 63 in sepsis-AKI, 22 in non-sepsis-non-AKI groups. Although plasma NGAL performed less well (AUC 0.44), urinary NGAL showed significant discrimination for AKI diagnosis (AUC 0.80) with a threshold value of 29.5 ng/ml (88% sensitivity, 73% specificity). Both plasma and urine Cystatin C worked well for the diagnosis of AKI (AUC 0.82 and 0.86, thresholds 1.5 and 0.106 mg/L respectively).

Conclusion: Plasma and urinary Cystatin C and urinary NGAL are useful markers in predicting AKI in septic critically ill patients. Plasma NGAL raises in patients with sepsis in the absence of AKI and should be used with caution as a marker of AKI in septic ICU patients.
Effects on Mechanical Properties of Recycled PET in Cement-Based Composites
Authors: Ávila Córdoba Liliana , Martínez-Barrera Gonzalo , Barrera Díaz Carlos , Ureña Nuñez Fernando , Loza Yañez Alejandro
Published: June 2013

Concretes consisting of portland cement (OPC), silica sand, gravel, water, and recycled PET particles were developed. Specimens without PET particles were prepared for comparison. Curing times, PET particle sizes, and aggregate concentrations were varied. The compressive strength, compressive strain at yield point, and Young modulus were determined. Morphological and chemical compositions of recycled PET particles were seen in a scanning electron microscopy. Results show that smaller PET particle sizes in lower concentrations generate improvements on compressive strength and strain, and Young’s modulus decreases when the size of PET particles used was increased.
Torsion Dynamic Behaviour of the Ship Hull Made out of Layered Composites
Authors: Chirica Ionel
Published: June 2013

This paper addresses the dynamic torsion behaviour of the ship hull with very large open decks. A short overview of the past research is presented, and several key findings and behavioral characteristics are discussed. In the paper, the author is focusing on the dynamic part of a new macroelement model used for torsion dynamic analysis of the ship hull made of composite materials. The numerical analysis (using two methods, one of them being a new proposed method) and experiments are developed on a simplified typical hull of a container ship. The torsion analysis is performed on a scale model of a container ship, made of layered composite plates, and the first 5 natural frequencies are determined. The results obtained with the proposed numerical method (software code TORS, made by the author) are compared with the results obtained with FE analysis and with the experiments done on the physical model.
Advances in Murine Models of Diabetic Nephropathy
Authors: Kong Li-li , Wu Hao , Cui Wen-peng , Zhou Wen-hua , Luo Ping , Sun Jing , Yuan Hang , Miao Li-ning
Published: June 2013

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is one of the microvascular complications of both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, which is also associated with a poor life expectancy of diabetic patients. However, the pathogenesis of DN is still unclear. Thus, it is of great use to establish appropriate animal models of DN for doing research on pathogenesis and developing novel therapeutic strategies. Although a large number of murine models of DN including artificially induced, spontaneous, and genetically engineered (knockout and transgenic) animal models have been developed, none of them develops renal changes sufficiently reflecting those seen in humans. Here we review the identified murine models of DN from the aspects of genetic background, type of diabetes, method of induction, gene deficiency, animal age and gender, kidney histopathology, and phenotypic alterations in the hope of enhancing our comprehension of genetic susceptibility and molecular mechanisms responsible for this disease and providing new clues as to how to choose appropriate animal models of DN.
Effectiveness of Fluoride Varnish Application as Cariostatic and Desensitizing Agent in Irradiated Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Dholam Kanchan P. , Somani Priyanka Piyush , Prabhu Seema D. , Ambre Shubhangi R.
Published: June 2013

Objective. To evaluate the effectiveness of three-month fluoride varnish application on radiation caries and dental sensitivity and to assess compliance to three-month fluoride varnish application.Materials and Methods. 190 irradiated head and neck cancer patients were randomly selected and reviewed retrospectively. Oral prophylaxis, fluoride varnish application, and treatment of dental caries were done prior to radiation therapy. Patients were followed up at every three months for dental evaluation and fluoride varnish application. Decayed-missing-filling-teeth indices, dental sensitivity, and compliance to fluoride varnish application were noted for fifteen months and analyzed statistically.Results. Significant increase in decayed-missing-filling-teeth index was seen at nine(P=0.028), twelve(P=0.003)and fifteen(P=0.002)months follow-up. However, the rate of increase in decayed-missing-filling-teeth indices was 1.64/month which is less than the rate mentioned in the literature (2.5/month). There was no significant effect of sex(P=0.952)and surgery(P=0.672)on radiation caries, but site of disease(P=0.038)and radiation dose(P=0.015)were found to have statistically significant effect. Dental sensitivity decreased from 39% at 3 months to 25% at 15 months followup. 99% compliance to fluoride varnish application was seen till six months followup which decreased to 46% at fifteen months.Conclusion. Three-month fluoride varnish application is effective in decreasing radiation caries and sensitivity and has good compliance.
Pemphigus Vulgaris and Infections: A Retrospective Study on 155 Patients
Authors: Esmaili Nafiseh , Mortazavi Hossein , Noormohammadpour Pedram , Boreiri Majid , Soori Tahereh , Vasheghani Farahani Iman , Mohit Mitra
Published: June 2013

Background. Autoimmune process and immunosuppressive therapy of pemphigus vulgaris would predispose the patients to infections.Aim. We aimed to study the prevalence of infection and pathogenic agents in pemphigus vulgaris patients admitted to dermatology service.Material and methods. This retrospective study was conducted on 155 pemphigus vulgaris patients (68 males, 87 females) admitted to dermatology service between 2009 and 2011. In this study, the diagnosis of pemphigus vulgaris was confirmed by light microscopic and direct immunofluorescence findings. Data were collected through a questionnaire.Results. Of 155 pemphigus vulgaris patients, 33 had infection at admission and 9 acquired nosocomial infection. In addition, 37 cases of oral candidiasis and 15 cases of localized herpes simplex were recorded. Totally, 94 cases of infection were recorded. The occurrence of infection was significantly related to the severity of disease, number of hospital admissions, and presence of diabetes mellitus. The most common pathogenic germs isolated from cultures wereStaphylococcus aureusandEscherichia coli.Conclusion. Severity of pemphigus vulgaris and diabetes were directly related with tendency to infections. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were the most common pathogenic agents. Due to limitations of retrospective study, a prospective study is recommended.
H∞Control of Network-Based Systems with Packet Disordering and Packet Loss Compensation
Authors: Li Jinna , Wei Lifeng , Liu Chao , Yu Haibin
Published: June 2013

Compensation scheme-basedH∞control is investigated for networked control systems with packet disordering and packet loss. Since the existence of packet disordering and packet loss inevitably degrades the control performance of networked control systems, it is worth studying a control scheme to compensate for them, such that the control performance can be improved. Thus, a compensation control strategy is first proposed following this direction. Next, a mathematical model of networked control systems with Markovian property is constructed due to the signals executed by the plant subject to Markovian chain. Based on it, a sufficient condition for stochastic stability of networked control systems with uncertain parameters as well as compensation strategy is presented, and an adaptive controller is designed based on linear matrix inequality (LMI) technique. Finally, a numerical example and simulations are given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
CD16+Monocyte Subsets Are Increased in Large Abdominal Aortic Aneurysms and Are Differentially Related with Circulating and Cell-Associated Biochemical and Inflammatory Biomarkers
Authors: Ghigliotti Giorgio , Barisione Chiara , Garibaldi Silvano , Brunelli Claudio , Palmieri Daniela , Spinella Giovanni , Pane Bianca , Spallarossa Paolo , Altieri Paola , Fabbi Patrizia , Sambuceti Gianmario , Palombo Domenico
Published: June 2013

Proinflammatory components are present in abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). Circulating monocytes display heterogeneity, and three subsets have been identified, based on the differential expression for CD14 and CD16 receptors: CD14+CD16-, classical, CD14+CD16+, intermediate and CD14dimCD16+, non-classical monocytes. Increased proinflammatory CD16+monocytes with high expression of CD143 are present in CKD patients. D-dimer is increased in AAA patients, and might contribute to the pro-inflammatory response associated to circulating monocytes. We aimed to investigate the frequency of CD14+CD16+, CD14dimCD16+monocytes and monocyte CD143 expression in AAA patients, and their relationship with D-dimer, eGFR and other inflammatory parameters. Blood from 74 AAA patients and 30 healthy controls was analyzed to determine the frequency of CD14+, CD16+, CD14dimCD16+monocytes and the monocyte CD143 expression by means of flow-cytometry. AAA patients had expanded CD16+SUPsets (CD14+CD16+: 7.66 ± 0.31% vs 5.42 ± 0.27%; CD14dimCD16+: 7.43 ± 0.48% vs 5.54 ± 0.38%, AAA vs controls, mean ± SE, both p<0.05). CD14+CD16+cells were associated to D-dimer and age, and to reduced eGFR. CD14dimCD16+cells were associated to uric acid, surface CD143, and reduced count of total leukocytes and neutrophils. Within AAA patients, the two CD16+supsets and the monocyte CD143 expression display different relationships with D-dimer, parameters of renal function and circulating biochemical and inflammatory biomarkers.
Biaxial Flexural Strength of High-Viscosity Glass-Ionomer Cements Heat-Cured with an LED Lamp during Setting
Authors: Fabián Molina Gustavo , Cabral Ricardo Juan , Mazzola Ignacio , Brain Lascano Laura , Frencken Jo E.
Published: June 2013

Adding heat to glass ionomers during setting might improve mechanical properties. The aim was to compare the biaxial flexural strength (BFS) between and within four glass ionomers, by time of exposure to a high-intensity LED light-curing unit.Materials and methods. Samples of Fuji 9 Gold Label, Ketac Molar Easymix, ChemFil Rock, and the EQUIA system were divided into three treatment groups (n=30): without heating (Group 1), heated with LED lamp of 1400 mW/cm2for 30 s while setting (Group 2), and heated with LED lamp of 1400 mW/cm2for 60 s while setting (Group 3). Samples were stored for 48 hours in distilled water at 37°C until tested. BFS was tested, using a universal testing machine at a crosshead speed of 1 mm/min. Data were analyzed, using ANOVA test with the Bonferroni correction (α=0.05). Heating the glass-ionomer cements with an LED curing light of 1400 mW/cm2during setting for 30 s increased the BFS value of all GICs. No statistically significant difference in mean BFS scores was found between the EQUIA system and ChemFil Rock at 30 s and 60 s. The mean BFS value was statistically significantly higher for the EQUIA system and ChemFil Rock than for Fuji 9 Gold Label and Ketac Molar Easymix at all exposure times.
Nanocrystalline Ni‐Co Alloy Synthesis by High Speed Electrodeposition
Authors: Idris Jamaliah , Christian Chukwuekezie , Gaius Eyu
Published: June 2013

Electrodeposition of nanocrystals is economically and technologically viable production path for the synthesis of pure metals and alloys both in coatings and bulk form. The study presents nanocrystalline Ni‐Co alloy synthesis by high speed electrodeposition. Nanocrystalline Ni‐Co alloys coatings were prepared by direct current (DC) and deposited directly on steel and aluminum substrates without any pretreatment, using high speed electrodeposition method. The influence of the electrolysis parameters, such as cathodic current density and temperature at constant pH, on electrodeposition and microstructure of Ni‐Co alloys were examined. A homogeneous surface morphology was obtained at all current densities of the plated samples, and it was evident that the current density and temperature affect the coating thickness of Ni‐Co alloy coatings.