bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of distant reiki on pain in women after elective Caesarean section: a double-blinded randomised controlled trial
Authors: vanderVaart Sondra , Berger Howard , Tam Carolyn , Goh Y Ingrid , Gijsen Violette M G J , de Wildt Saskia N , Taddio Anna , Koren Gideon
Published: March 2011

Introduction

Approximately 25% of all babies in North America are delivered via Caesarean section (C-section). Though a common surgical procedure, C-section recovery can be painful. Opioids, specifically codeine, are commonly used to ease pain; however, its active metabolite, morphine, passes into breast milk, and may produce unwanted side effects in neonates; therefore, alternatives to opioids are being sought. Reiki is an ancient Japanese form of healing where practitioners transfer healing energy through light touch and positive healing intention. Although 1.2 million Americans use reiki to reduce pain or depression, there is a lack of strong evidence supporting its effectiveness. A recent systematic review showed existing studies to be of poor methodological quality, with the common limitation of lack of blinding. To overcome this issue, the authors used distant reiki to assess its effectiveness in reducing pain following an elective C-section.

Methods

In this randomised, double-blinded study, women who underwent an elective C-section were allocated to either usual care (control, n=40) or three distant reiki sessions in addition to usual care (n=40). Pain was assessed using a visual analogue scale (VAS). The primary endpoint was the Area Under the VAS-Time Curve (AUC) for days 1–3. Secondary measures included: the proportion of women who required opioid medications and dose consumed, rate of healing and vital signs.

Results

AUC for pain was not significantly different in the distant reiki and control groups (mean±SD; 212.1±104.7 vs 223.1±117.8; p=0.96). There were no significant differences in opioid consumption or rate of healing; however, the distant reiki group had a significantly lower heart rate (74.3±8.1 bpm vs 79.8±7.9 bpm, p=0.003) and blood pressure (106.4±9.7 mm Hg vs 111.9±11.0 mm Hg, p=0.02) post surgery.

Conclusion

Distant reiki had no significant effect on pain following an elective C-section.

Clinical Trial Registration Number

ISRCTN79265996.
Using free text information to explore how and when GPs code a diagnosis of ovarian cancer: an observational study using primary care records of patients with ovarian cancer
Authors: Tate A Rosemary , Martin Alexander G R , Ali Aishath , Cassell Jackie A
Published: March 2011

Background

Primary care databases provide a unique resource for healthcare research, but most researchers currently use only the Read codes for their studies, ignoring information in the free text, which is much harder to access.

Objectives

To investigate how much information on ovarian cancer diagnosis is ‘hidden’ in the free text and the time lag between a diagnosis being described in the text or in a hospital letter and the patient being given a Read code for that diagnosis.

Design

Anonymised free text records from the General Practice Research Database of 344 women with a Read code indicating ovarian cancer between 1 June 2002 and 31 May 2007 were used to compare the date at which the diagnosis was first coded with the date at which the diagnosis was recorded in the free text. Free text relating to a diagnosis was identified (a) from the date of coded diagnosis and (b) by searching for words relating to the ovary.

Results

90% of cases had information relating to their ovary in the free text. 45% had text indicating a definite diagnosis of ovarian cancer. 22% had text confirming a diagnosis before the coded date; 10% over 4 weeks previously. Four patients did not have ovarian cancer and 10% had only ambiguous or suspected diagnoses associated with the ovarian cancer code.

Conclusions

There was a vast amount of extra information relating to diagnoses in the free text. Although in most cases text confirmed the coded diagnosis, it also showed that in some cases GPs do not code a definite diagnosis on the date that it is confirmed. For diseases which rely on hospital consultants for diagnosis, free text (particularly letters) is invaluable for accurate dating of diagnosis and referrals and also for identifying misclassified cases.
Uses and misuses of the STROBE statement: bibliographic study
Authors: da Costa Bruno R , Cevallos Myriam , Altman Douglas G , Rutjes Anne W S , Egger Matthias
Published: March 2011

Objectives

Appropriate reporting is central to the application of findings from research to clinical practice. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) recommendations consist of a checklist of 22 items that provide guidance on the reporting of cohort, case–control and cross-sectional studies, in order to facilitate critical appraisal and interpretation of results. STROBE was published in October 2007 in several journals includingThe Lancet,BMJ,Annals of Internal MedicineandPLoS Medicine. Within the framework of the revision of the STROBE recommendations, the authors examined the context and circumstances in which the STROBE statement was used in the past.

Design

The authors searched the Web of Science database in August 2010 for articles which cited STROBE and examined a random sample of 100 articles using a standardised, piloted data extraction form. The use of STROBE in observational studies and systematic reviews (including meta-analyses) was classified as appropriate or inappropriate. The use of STROBE to guide the reporting of observational studies was considered appropriate. Inappropriate uses included the use of STROBE as a tool to assess the methodological quality of studies or as a guideline on how to design and conduct studies.

Results

The authors identified 640 articles that cited STROBE. In the random sample of 100 articles, about half were observational studies (32%) or systematic reviews (19%). Comments, editorials and letters accounted for 15%, methodological articles for 8%, and recommendations and narrative reviews for 26% of articles. Of the 32 observational studies, 26 (81%) made appropriate use of STROBE, and three uses (10%) were considered inappropriate. Among 19 systematic reviews, 10 (53%) used STROBE inappropriately as a tool to assess study quality.

Conclusions

The STROBE reporting recommendations are frequently used inappropriately in systematic reviews and meta-analyses as an instrument to assess the methodological quality of observational studies.
A possible association between a dysfunctional skin barrier (filaggrin null-mutation status) and diabetes: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Thyssen Jacob P , Linneberg Allan , Carlsen Berit C , Johansen Jeanne D , Engkilde Kåre , Hansen Torben , Pociot Flemming , Pedersen Oluf , Meldgaard Michael , Szecsi Pal B , Stender Steen , Menné Torkil
Published: March 2011

Background

Filaggrin proteins are located in the skin and prevent epidermal water loss and impede the entry of micro-organisms, allergens and chemicals. Filaggrin null mutations are strongly associated with ichthyosis vulgaris and atopic dermatitis.

Objective

The authors aimed to investigate the association between filaggrin null mutations, atopic dermatitis and diabetes.

Design

A random sample of 3335 adults from the general population in Denmark was filaggrin-genotyped for R501X and 2282del4 null-mutations and questioned about atopic dermatitis and diabetes. Furthermore, two independent study populations of patients with type 1 (n=104) or 2 (n=774) diabetes were genotyped.

Results

In a crude data analysis, a positive association was detected between the filaggrin null genotype and, respectively, subjects from the general population who reported diabetes (p=0.04) and patients with established type 2 diabetes (p=0.073). Adjustment for age and gender resulted in significant associations for patients with type 2 diabetes (p=0.048) and subjects with self-reported diabetes (p=0.032).

Conclusions

Adult Danes with a filaggrin null genotype had a significantly increased prevalence of self-reported diabetes. This finding was replicated when an independent sample of Danish patients with established type 2 diabetes was compared with control subjects from the general population.
Socio-economic differences in long-term psychiatric work disability: prospective cohort study of onset, recovery and recurrence
Authors: Virtanen Marianna , Kawachi Ichiro , Oksanen Tuula , Salo Paula , Tuisku Katinka , Pulkki-Råback Laura , Pentti Jaana , Elovainio Marko , Vahtera Jussi , Kivimäki Mika
Published: March 2011

Objectives

To examine the associations between socio-economic position (SEP) and the onset of psychiatric work disability, return to work and recurrence of disability.

Methods

Prospective observational cohort study (1997–2005) including register data on 141 917 public-sector employees in Finland. Information on International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision diagnosis-specific psychiatric work disability (≥90 days) was obtained from national registers.

Results

During a mean follow-up of 6.3 years, 3938 (2.8%) participants experienced long-term psychiatric work disability. Of these, 2418 (61%) returned to work, and a further 743 (31%) experienced a recurrent episode. SEP was inversely associated with onset of disability owing to depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenia and substance-use disorders. No association was found between SEP and disability owing to bipolar disorders or reaction to severe stress and adjustment disorders. High SEP was associated with a greater likelihood of a return to work following depressive disorders, personality disorders, schizophrenia and substance-use disorders, but not bipolar disorders, anxiety disorders or reaction to severe stress and adjustment disorders. Low SEP predicted recurrent episodes of work disability.

Conclusions

High SEP is associated with lower onset of work disability owing to mental disorders, as well as return to work and lower rates of recurrence. However, the socio-economic advantage is diagnosis-specific. SEP predicted neither the onset and recovery from disability owing to bipolar disorders and reaction to severe stress and adjustment disorders, nor recovery from disability owing to anxiety disorders. SEP should be taken into account in the attempts to reduce long-term work disability owing to mental disorders.
Trends in mesothelioma mortality rates in South Africa: 1995–2007
Authors: Kielkowski D , Nelson G , Bello B , Kgalamono S , Phillips J I
Published: March 2011

Objective

In 1984, South Africa had one of the highest mesothelioma rates in the world. The objective of this analysis was to calculate mesothelioma mortality rates in the South African population from 1995 to 2007.

Methods

Annual mortality data and midyear population estimates were used to compute mortality rates by age group and gender for each year. The WHO World Standard Population was used as the reference population to calculate age-adjusted rates. Poisson regression models were used to test for trends.

Results

In total, 2509 deaths due to mesothelioma were identified in the study period: 1920 in men and 588 in women. There were no significant trends in mesothelioma mortality rates: age-adjusted mortality rates fluctuated from 11 to 16 and from 3 to 5 per million per year for men and women, respectively.

Conclusion

These mortality rates are much lower than expected, given the historical production and use of, and high exposure to, asbestos in South Africa. Possible reasons for this are discussed, including the effect of HIV which has been instrumental in reducing the life expectancy of South Africans in the last two decades. Asbestos-exposed individuals may not live long enough to develop mesothelioma. Competing causes of death need to be taken into account when constructing models to predict mesothelioma mortality rates.
The impact of a local smoke-free air law on wagering at an off-track betting facility in Indiana
Authors: Macy Jonathan T , Hernandez Erika L
Published: March 2011

Objective

This study measured the impact of a local smoke-free air law on wagering at an off-track betting (OTB) facility in Indiana.

Methods

Regression analysis was used to compare the trend in per capita amount wagered at an OTB location that went smoke-free to the trend in per capita amount wagered at two comparison OTB locations that continued to permit smoking. Unemployment rate was included as a covariate.

Results

During the study period, there was a decreasing trend in the per capita amount wagered at each of the three OTB locations. There was no significant change in the trend for the location that went smoke free or for the locations where smoking has continued.

Conclusions

There is no economic reason to exclude OTB facilities from smoke-free legislation.
Computer study of absorption of oxygen and ozone molecules by water clusters with Cl– and Br–
Authors: Galashev Alexander Y.
Published: March 2011

Infrared absorption and Raman spectra were calculated by using the molecular dynamics method for water clusters with chlorine and bromine ions in a medium of water and either ozone or oxygen molecules. The intensity of IR absorption spectra of clusters with absorbed oxygen increased and that of clusters with absorbed ozone decreased as the number of chlorine ions grew. When Br– were present in the system the inverse behaviour was observed. An increase in the number of ions weakened the intensity of the Raman spectra when either oxygen or ozone was absorbed; for ozone this weakening was more noticeable. A stronger reduction of the integrated intensity of the Raman spectrum with an increase in the number of Br– was observed in the presence of ozone molecules in the system. Cl– ions caused an amplification of the emission power of the IR radiation for both systems in the presence of oxygen and ozone, and Br– strengthened the emission of IR radiation for systems containing ozone, and weakened it for systems with oxygen molecules.
The synthesis of the 8-C-substituted 2,6-diamino-9-[2-(phosphonomethoxy)ethyl]purine (PMEDAP) derivatives by diverse cross-coupling reactions
Authors: Sedláček Ondřej , Břehová Petra , Pohl Radek , Holý Antonín , Janeba Zlatko
Published: March 2011

Diisopropyl 8-bromo-2,6-diamino-9-[2-(phosphonomethoxy)ethyl]purine was used as a starting material for the synthesis of the 8-C-substituted 2,6-diamino-9-[2-(phosphonomethoxy)ethyl]purine (PMEDAP) analogues. A systematic screening of diverse cross-coupling reactions was carried out. Stille, Suzuki–Miyaura, Negishi, and Sonogashira cross-couplings, as well as Pd-catalysed reactions with trialkylaluminiums, were employed for the introduction of various alkyl, alkenyl, alkynyl, aryl, and hetaryl substituents to the C-8 position of the 2,6-diaminopurine moiety. In contrast to the potent parent compound PMEDAP, which exhibits potent antiretroviral and antitumor activity, none of the sixteen newly synthesized 8-C-substituted analogues of PMEDAP showed any specific antiviral activity.
ON THE FAULT-TOLERANCE AND SIZE OF WDM OPTICAL NETWORKS
Authors: CERES PIETRO , CERES RAFFAELE
Published: March 2011

In optical networks the approach called wavelength division multiplexing allows multiple data streams to be transmitted concurrently along a single optical link, with different streams assigned separate wavelengths. In this paper we refer to all-optical networks, in which each connection is totally optical except at the terminal nodes. For these networks we determine the minimum possible number of links required to perform a fault tolerant broadcast from any node, in terms of the number of nodes, the number of link failures to tolerate and the number of wavelengths to use. We also give lower and upper bounds on the number of wavelengths required for any broadcast which tolerates a given number of link failures on networks with arbitrary topologies.
LINK HOMOTOPY INVARIANT QUANDLES
Authors: HUGHES JAMES R.
Published: March 2011

We consider several approaches to defining a link homotopy version of the fundamental quandle Q(L) of a link L in S3. We first define the reduced fundamental quandle RQ(L) as a quotient of Q(L). We show that RQ(L) is a link homotopy invariant that carries at least as much information as the meridian-preserving isomorphism class of Milnor's reduced group RG(L). We then show that operator reduction, a plausible alternative approach to defining RQ(L), fails to yield a link homotopy invariant. Finally, we give a geometric characterization of RQ(L), and offer a caveat regarding a seemingly simpler approach.
FINITE THURSTON-TYPE ORDERINGS ON DUAL BRAID MONOIDS
Authors: ITO TETSUYA
Published: March 2011

For a finite Thurston-type ordering < of the braid group Bn, we introduce a new normal form of a dual positive braid which we call the [Formula: see text]-normal form, which is useful to compute the ordering. This normal form extends Fromentin's rotating normal form and the author's [Formula: see text]-normal form of positive braids. Using the [Formula: see text]-normal form, we give a combinatorial description of the restriction of the ordering < to the dual braid monoids [Formula: see text]. We prove that the restriction to the dual positive monoid [Formula: see text] is a well-ordered set of the order type ωωn-2.
ON THE COMPLEX VOLUME OF HYPERBOLIC KNOTS
Authors: YOKOTA YOSHIYUKI
Published: March 2011

In this paper, we give a formula of the complex volumes of hyperbolic knot complements, which is related to the volume conjecture for hyperbolic knots.
ON TURAEV'S THEOREM ABOUT DIJKGRAAF–WITTEN INVARIANTS OF SURFACES
Authors: KHOI VU THE
Published: March 2011

Turaev proves a formula for the Dijkgraaf–Witten invariants of surfaces in terms of projective representations by using the state sum invariant technique from quantum topology. In this paper, we present another proof of Turaev's theorem by using classical method of characters and representation theory. A version of Turaev's formula for surfaces with boundary is also given.
TWISTED TORUS KNOTS T(p, q; 3, s) ARE TUNNEL NUMBER ONE
Authors: LEE JUNG HOON
Published: March 2011

We show that twisted torus knots T(p, q; 3, s) are tunnel number one. A short spanning arc connecting two adjacent twisted strands is an unknotting tunnel.
PIECEWISE-LINEAR VIRTUAL KNOTS
Authors: NICHOLSON NEIL R.
Published: March 2011

Various theorems for classical piecewise-linear (PL) knots are shown to carry over to PL virtual knots. We then classify PL virtual knots up to edge index six.
GAUSS' LINKING NUMBER REVISITED
Authors: RICCA RENZO L. , NIPOTI BERNARDO
Published: March 2011

In this paper we provide a mathematical reconstruction of what might have been Gauss' own derivation of the linking number of 1833, providing also an alternative, explicit proof of its modern interpretation in terms of degree, signed crossings and intersection number. The reconstruction presented here is entirely based on an accurate study of Gauss' own work on terrestrial magnetism. A brief discussion of a possibly independent derivation made by Maxwell in 1867 completes this reconstruction. Since the linking number interpretations in terms of degree, signed crossings and intersection index play such an important role in modern mathematical physics, we offer a direct proof of their equivalence. Explicit examples of its interpretation in terms of oriented area are also provided.
NUMERICAL VERSUS EXPERIMENTAL DATA FOR PROSTATE TUMOUR GROWTH
Authors: KOLEV MIKHAIL , ZUBIK-KOWAL BARBARA
Published: March 2011

The goal of this paper is to solve mathematical model equations on solid tumour growth and compute their parameter values by applying growth rates of prostate cancer cell lines in vivo. For these computations, we investigate previously developed C3(1)/Tag transgenic models of prostate cancer. To make the computations fast, we have constructed an algorithm, which is based on small amounts of spatial grid-points and obtained a correspondence between the in vivo growth of tumours and the solutions of the model equations.
AUTMINER: A SYSTEM FOR EXTRACTING ASD-RELATED GENES USING TEXT MINING
Authors: GONG LEJUN , SUN XIAO , JIANG DONGKE , GONG SHENGTAO
Published: March 2011

Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) represent a group of developmental disorders with strong genetic underpinnings. To explore the genetic complexity of ASD, we developed AutMiner (), a public web-portal for the collection of genes linked to ASD, and the implementation of an autism-centre network. AutMiner extracts candidate genes associated with ASD using text mining from 9276 abstracts. Compared to other recent systems, gene entries are richer to provide a reference for clinical geneticists. AutMiner also constructs ASD-related network consisting of autism-gene network and gene-gene network. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first web example of ASD-related network. The major focus of AutMiner is to offer a valuable reference tool for clinical geneticists in establishing and implementing effective genetic screening programmes for those patients with ASD.
A NOTE ON "CHAIN TELEPORTATION WITH PARTIALLY ENTANGLED STATES"
Authors: XU CHUN-JIE , LIU YI-MIN , YIN XIAO-FENG , ZHANG ZHAN-JUN
Published: March 2011

The global chain teleportation protocol (GCTP) [Eur. Phys. J. D54 (2009) 111] is revisited via a three-node instantiation. The required operation ability and manipulation orderings of the three participants are sightly changed so that in the improved version, three additional important merits are resultant with consuming only an additional one-classical-bit message.
Oxygen Permeation in Thin, Dense Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95-δ Membranes II. Experimental Determination
Authors: Chatzichristodoulou Christodoulos , Søgaard Martin , Glasscock Julie , Kaiser Andreas , Foghmoes Søren Preben Vagn , Hendriksen Peter Vang
Published: March 2011

Thin (∼30 μm), dense Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95-δ (CGO10) membranes (5 × 5 cm2) supported on a porous NiO/YSZ substrate were fabricated by tape casting, wet powder spraying and lamination. A La0.58Sr0.4Co0.2Fe0.8O3-δ/Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95-δ (LSCF/CGO10) composite cathode was applied by screen printing. Oxygen permeation measurements and electrochemical characterisation of the cells were performed as a function of temperature with air and varying hydrogen/steam mixtures flowing in the feed and permeate compartments, respectively. The oxygen flux was found to reach 10 N mL min−1 cm−2 at ∼1100 K and to exceed 16 N mL min−1 cm−2 at 1175 K. The measured oxygen flux was in good agreement with theoretical predictions from a model that takes into account the bulk transport properties of Ce0.9Gd0.1O1.95-δ, the anode and cathode polarisation resistances, and the gas conversion and gas diffusion losses in the permeate compartment. The performance of the membrane was also investigated under varying CH4 and H2O gas mixtures at 1106 K. The oxygen flux increased with decreasing steam to carbon ratio and was found to exceed 10 N mL min−1 cm−2 of O2 for steam to carbon ratios below 4:3. Post-test analysis of the tested membrane did not reveal any significant microstructural degradation of the CGO10 membrane or the anode-support.
Small intestine CD11c+CD8+T cells suppress CD4+T cell-induced immune colitis
Authors: Fujiwara Daisuke , Chen Ling , Wei Bo , Braun Jonathan
Published: March 2011

The large (LI) and small intestine (SI) differ in patterns of susceptibility to chronic mucosal inflammation. In this study, we evaluated whether this might, in part, reflect differences in resident mucosal CD11c+T cells. These cells comprised 39–48% (SI) and 12–17% (LI) of the intraepithelial compartment, most of which were T-cell receptor-αβ+. In the SI, the majority of these cells were CD103+CD8+NK1.1−, whereas the opposite phenotype prevailed in the LI. In transfer models of CD4+T cell-induced colitis, small numbers (2.5 × 105) of SI CD11c+CD8+T cells suppressed proinflammatory cytokine-producing CD4+T cells in mesenteric lymph nodes and mucosa-associated lymphoid compartments (SI and LI) and protected mice from chronic inflammation. On a per-cell basis, the regulatory function of SI CD11c+T cells in CD4+T cell colitis was potent compared with other reported regulatory CD4+or CD8+T cells. In contrast, neither LI CD11c+T cells nor SI CD11c−T cells were effective in such immunoregulation. SI CD11c+CD8+T cells were similarly effective in suppressing CD4+CD45RBhiT cell colitis, as evidenced by inhibition of intracellular proinflammatory cytokine expression and histological inflammation. These findings indicate that SI CD11c+CD8+T cells are a distinct intestinal T cell population that plays an immunoregulatory role in control of proinflammatory CD4+T cells and maintenance of intestinal mucosal homeostasis.
Caloric restriction in leptin deficiency does not correct myocardial steatosis: failure to normalize PPARα/PGC1α and thermogenic glycerolipid/fatty acid cycling
Authors: Rame J. Eduardo , Barouch Lili A. , Sack Michael N. , Lynn Edward G. , Abu-Asab Mones , Tsokos Maria , Kern Steven J. , Barb Jennifer J. , Munson Peter J. , Halushka Marc K. , Miller Karen L. , Fox-Talbot Karen , Zhang Jianhua , Hare Joshua M. , Solomon Michael A. , Danner Robert L.
Published: March 2011

Objective: Evidence supports an antilipotoxic role for leptin in preventing inappropriate peripheral tissue lipid deposition. Obese, leptin-deficient mice develop left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy and myocardial steatosis with increased apoptosis and decreased longevity. Here we investigated the cardiac effects of caloric restriction versus leptin repletion in obese leptin-deficient ( ob/ob) mice. Methods: Echocardiography was performed on 7 mo old C57BL/6 wild-type mice (WT) and ob/ob mice fed ad libitum, leptin-repleted (LR- ob/ob), or calorie-restricted (CR- ob/ob) for 4 wk. Ventricular tissue was examined by electron microscopy (EM), triglyceride (TAG) content, oil red O staining, mitochondrial coupling assay, and microarray expression profiling. Results: LR and CR- ob/ob mice showed decreased body and heart weight, and LV wall thickness compared with ad libitum ob/ob mice. LV fractional shortening was decreased in ad libitum ob/ob mice, but restored to WT in LR and CR groups. However, myocardial lipid content by EM and TAG analysis revealed persistent cardiac steatosis in the CR- ob/ob group. Although CR restored mitochondrial coupling to WT levels, PPARα was suppressed and genes associated with oxidative stress and cell death were upregulated in CR- ob/ob animals. In contrast, LR eliminated cardiac steatosis, normalized mitochondrial coupling, and restored PGC1α and PPARα expression, while inducing core genes involved in glycerolipid/free fatty acid (GL/FFA) cycling, a thermogenic pathway that can reduce intracellular lipids. Conclusions: Thus, CR in the absence of leptin fails to normalize cardiac steatosis. GL/FFA cycling may be, at least in part, leptin-dependent and a key pathway that protects the heart from lipid accumulation.
Performance Analysis of Mobile Ad Hoc Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Communication Networks with Directional Antennas
Authors: Alshbatat Abdel Ilah , Dong Liang
Published: March 2011

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) have the potential of creating an ad hoc communication network in the air. Most UAVs used in communication networks are equipped with wireless transceivers using omnidirectional antennas. In this paper, we consider a collection of UAVs that communicate through wireless links as a mobile ad-hoc network using directional antennas. The network design goal is to maximize the throughput and minimize the end-to-end delay. In this respect, we propose a new medium access control protocol for a network of UAVs with directional antennas. We analyze the communication channel between the UAVs and the effect of aircraft attitude on the network performance. Using the optimized network engineering tool (OPNET), we compare our protocol with the IEEE 802.11 protocol for omnidirectional antennas. The simulation results show performance improvement in end-to-end delay as well as throughput.
On a New Summation Formula for  2ψ2 Basic Bilateral Hypergeometric Series and Its Applications
Authors: Somashekara D. D. , Murthy K. Narasimha , Shalini S. L.
Published: March 2011

We have obtained a new summation formula for  2ψ2 bilateral basic hypergeometric series by the method of parameter augmentation and demonstrated its various uses leading to some development of etafunctions, q‐gamma, and q‐beta function identities.
Fixed Point Theorems for Generalized Weakly Contractive Condition in Ordered Metric Spaces
Authors: Nashine HemantKumar , Altun Ishak
Published: March 2011

Fixed point results with the concept of generalized weakly contractive conditions in complete ordered metric spaces are derived. These results generalize the existing fixed point results in the literature.
Peptide‐Loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles Prepared through Coacervation Technique
Authors: Gallarate Marina , Battaglia Luigi , Peira E. , Trotta Michele
Published: March 2011

Stearic acid solid lipid nanoparticles were prepared according to a new technique, called coacervation. The main goal of this experimental work was the entrapment of peptide drugs into SLN, which is a difficult task, since their chemical characteristics (molecular weight, hydrophilicity, and stability) hamper peptide‐containing formulations. Insulin and leuprolide, chosen as model peptide drugs, were encapsulated within nanoparticles after hydrophobic ion pairing with anionic surfactants. Peptide integrity was maintained after encapsulation, and nanoparticles can act in vitro as a sustained release system for peptide.
Study and Management of a Q Fever Outbreak among Machine Tool Workers in the Basque Country (Spain)
Authors: Delgado Naranjo Jesús , Alonso Fustel Eva , Aspiritxaga Gamarra Inmaculada , Ezpeleta Lobato Guillermo , Muniozguren Agirre Nerea
Published: March 2011

The aim of this study is to describe a Q fever outbreak that affected the staff of a
machine-tool factory in the Basque Country between 2009/12/20 and 2010/02/23.
Study subjects were interviewed using a Q fever specific questionnaire and tested
for Q fever serology (immunofluorescence assay with phase II antigen) and
detecting Coxiella burnetii DNA using real-time PCR. We interviewed and tested 40
employees (90% of the staff). 33 employees, all of them men, had positive
serology (attack rate 82.5%, 95% CI: 70.2–94.8). Mean age was 43.7 years
(95% CI: 38.7–48.7) in positive men, 33.7 years (95% CI: −16.6–83.9) in negative
men, and 36.25 (95% CI: 27.5–45.0) in women (all negatives). 15 cases (45.5%)
were asymptomatic, 9 (27.3%) had flu-like symptoms, and the other 9 (27.3%) had
developed radiologically confirmed pneumonia. We obtained 28 blood samples, 22
faeces samples, 11 milk samples, and one vaginal swab from 28 goats resting in a
stable near the factory. Serology was positive in 18 goats (64.3%). All
environmental samples were negative.
Brief Review of the Role of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3β in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Koh Seong-Ho , Baek Wonki , Kim Seung H.
Published: March 2011

Glycogen synthase kinase-3β(GSK-3β) is known to affect a diverse range of biological functions controlling gene expression, cellular architecture, and apoptosis. GSK-3βhas recently been identified as one of the important pathogenic mechanisms in motor neuronal death related to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Therefore, the development of methods to control GSK-3βcould be helpful in postponing the symptom progression of ALS. Here we discuss the known roles of GSK-3βin motor neuronal cell death in ALS and the possibility of employing GSK-3βmodulators as a new therapeutic strategy.
Downscaling Global Weather Forecast Outputs Using ANN for Flood Prediction
Authors: Do Hoai Nam , Udo Keiko , Mano Akira
Published: March 2011

Downscaling global weather prediction model outputs to individual locations or local scales is a common practice for operational weather forecast in order to correct the model outputs at subgrid scales. This paper presents an empirical‐statistical downscaling method for precipitation prediction which uses a feed‐forward multilayer perceptron (MLP) neural network. The MLP architecture was optimized by considering physical bases that determine the circulation of atmospheric variables. Downscaled precipitation was then used as inputs to the super tank model (runoff model) for flood prediction. The case study was conducted for the Thu Bon River Basin, located in Central Vietnam. Study results showed that the precipitation predicted by MLP outperformed that directly obtained from model outputs or downscaled using multiple linear regression. Consequently, flood forecast based on the downscaled precipitation was very encouraging. It has demonstrated as a robust technology, simple to implement, reliable, and universal application for flood prediction through the combination of downscaling model and super tank model.
An Implicit Iteration Method for Variational Inequalities over the Set of Common Fixed Points for a Finite Family of Nonexpansive Mappings in Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Buong Nguyen , Quynh Anh NguyenThi
Published: March 2011

We introduce a new implicit iteration method for finding a solution for a variational inequality involving Lipschitz continuous and strongly monotone mapping over the set of common fixed points for a finite family of nonexpansive mappings on Hilbert spaces.
Photocatalytic Properties of Nanotubular-ShapedTiO2Powders with Anatase Phase Obtained from Titanate Nanotube Powder through Various Thermal Treatments
Authors: Lee Nam-Hee , Oh Hyo-Jin , Jung Sang-Chul , Lee Won-Jae , Kim Dong-Hyun , Kim Sun-Jae
Published: March 2011

Photocatalytic properties of nanotubular-shaped titanate powders, synthesized by hydrothermal treatment ofTiO2, were studied after calcinations at various temperatures and times underO2, air, and H2atmospheres. Their photocatalytic properties were measured with checking decomposition of 4-chlorophenol under UV-A irradiation, together with physical characterizations using SEM, TEM, XRD, BET, and Raman spectroscopy. With increasing calcination temperature and time, nanotubular-shaped titanate particles became short, rod-like, or irregular by oversintering, and their crystalline structure was changed into anatase phase. The photocatalytic ability in decomposition of 4-chlorophenol using the calcined powders showed the highest value due to obtainment of high specific area by maintaining nanotubular shape, together with transformation from titanate to anatase phase having perfect crystallinity inO2or air atmosphere.
Consequences in Infants That Were Intrauterine Growth Restricted
Authors: Cosmi Erich , Fanelli Tiziana , Visentin Silvia , Trevisanuto Daniele , Zanardo Vincenzo
Published: March 2011

Intrauterine growth restriction is a condition fetus does not reach its growth potential and associated with perinatal mobility and mortality. Intrauterine growth restriction is caused by placental insufficiency, which determines cardiovascular abnormalities in the fetus. This condition, moreover, should prompt intensive antenatal surveillance of the fetus as well as follow-up of infants that had intrauterine growth restriction as short and long-term sequele should be considered.
Il-6 Serum Levels and Production Is Related to an Altered Immune Response in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Girls with Insulin Resistance
Authors: Fulghesu Anna M. , Sanna Francesca , Uda Sabrina , Magnini Roberta , Portoghese Elaine , Batetta Barbara
Published: March 2011

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is frequently characterized by obesity and metabolic diseases including hypertension, insulin resistance, and diabetes in adulthood, all leading to an increased risk of atherosclerosis. The present study aimed to evaluate serum and production of inflammatory markers in adolescent Sardinian PCOS. On the basis of HOMA findings, patients were divided into noninsulin resistant (NIR) and insulin resistant (IR), and were weight- and age-matched with healthy girls. Inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α, IL-6, Il-10, TGF-β) and lipokines (leptin, adiponectin), the reactant hs-CRP, andin vitroinflammatory lympho-monocyte response to microbial stimulus were evaluated. In healthy and PCOS subjects, leptin and hs-CRP were correlated with BMI, whereas adiponectin was significantly reduced in all PCOS groups. Although cytokines were similar in all groups, Interleukin-6 (IL-6) was significantly higher in IR PCOS. Moreover, in the latter group lipopolysaccharide-activated monocytes secreted significantly higher levels of IL-6 compared to NIR and control subjects. To conclude, IR PCOS displayed increased IL-6 serum levels and higher secretion in LPS-activated monocytes, whilst revealing no differences for other inflammatory cytokines. These results suggest that in PCOS patients an altered immune response to inflammatory stimuli is present in IR, likely contributing towards determining onset of a low grade inflammation.
Unveiling Stability Criteria of DNA-Carbon Nanotubes Constructs by Scanning Tunneling Microscopy and Computational Modeling
Authors: Kilina Svetlana , Yarotski Dzmitry A. , Talin A. Alec , Tretiak Sergei , Taylor Antoinette J. , Balatsky Alexander V.
Published: March 2011

We present a combined approach that relies on computational simulations and scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) measurements to reveal morphological properties and stability criteria of carbon nanotube-DNA (CNT-DNA) constructs. Application of STM allows direct observation of very stable CNT-DNA hybrid structures with the well-defined DNA wrapping angle of 63.4° and a coiling period of 3.3 nm. Using force field simulations, we determine how the DNA-CNT binding energy depends on the sequence and binding geometry of a single strand DNA. This dependence allows us to quantitatively characterize the stability of a hybrid structure with an optimal π-stacking between DNA nucleotides and the tube surface and better interpret STM data. Our simulations clearly demonstrate the existence of a very stable DNA binding geometry for (6,5) CNT as evidenced by the presence of a well-defined minimum in the binding energy as a function of an angle between DNA strand and the nanotube chiral vector. This novel approach demonstrates the feasibility of CNT-DNA geometry studies with subnanometer resolution and paves the way towards complete characterization of the structural and electronic properties of drug-delivering systems based on DNA-CNT hybrids as a function of DNA sequence and a nanotube chirality.
Development of AIDA v4.3b Diabetes Simulator: Technical Upgrade to Support Incorporation of Lispro, Aspart, and Glargine Insulin Analogues
Authors: Lehmann Eldon D. , Tarín Cristina , Bondia Jorge , Teufel Edgar , Deutsch Tibor
Published: March 2011

Introduction. AIDA is an interactive educational diabetes simulator available on the Internet without charge since 1996 (accessible at: http://www.2aida.org/). Since the program’s original release, users have developed new requirements, with new operating systems coming into use and more complex insulin management regimens being adopted. The current work has aimed to design a comprehensive diabetes simulation system from both a clinical and information technology perspective.Methods. A collaborative development is taking place with a new generic model of subcutaneous insulin absorption, permitting the simulation of rapidly-acting and very long-acting insulin analogues, as well as insulin injections larger than 40 units. This novel, physiological insulin absorption model has been incorporated into AIDA v4. Technical work has also been undertaken to install and operate the AIDA software within a DOSBox emulator, to ensure compatibility with Windows XP, Vista and 7 operating systems as well as Apple Macintosh computers running Parallels PC emulation software.Results. Plasma insulin simulations are demonstrated following subcutaneous injections of a rapidly-acting insulin analogue, a short-acting insulin preparation, intermediate-acting insulin, and a very long-acting insulin analogue for injected insulin doses up to 60 units of insulin.Discussion.The current work extends the useful life of the existing AIDA v4 program.
Elucidating the Complex Interactions between Stress and Epileptogenic Pathways
Authors: Friedman Aaron R. , Cacheaux Luisa P. , Ivens Sebastian , Kaufer Daniela
Published: March 2011

Clinical and experimental data suggest that stress contributes to the pathology of epilepsy. We review mechanisms by which stress, primarily via stress hormones, may exacerbate epilepsy, focusing on the intersection between stress-induced pathways and the progression of pathological events that occur before, during, and after the onset of epileptogenesis. In addition to this temporal nuance, we discuss other complexities in stress-epilepsy interactions, including the role of blood-brain barrier dysfunction, neuron-glia interactions, and inflammatory/cytokine pathways that may be protective or damaging depending on context. We advocate the use of global analytical tools, such as microarray, in support of a shift away from a narrow focus on seizures and towards profiling the complex, early process of epileptogenesis, in which multiple pathways may interact to dictate the ultimate onset of chronic, recurring seizures.
The Hijazi Inequalities on Complete Riemannian Spinc Manifolds
Authors: Nakad Roger
Published: March 2011

We extend the Hijazi type inequality, involving the energy‐momentum
tensor, to the eigenvalues of the Dirac operator on complete Riemannian Spinc manifolds
without boundary and of finite volume. Under some additional assumptions,
using the refined Kato inequality, we prove the Hijazi type inequality for elements of
the essential spectrum. The limiting cases are also studied.
First Passage Time Moments of Jump-Diffusions with Markovian Switching
Authors: Peng Jun , Liu Zaiming
Published: March 2011

Using an integral equation associated with generalized backward Kolmogorov's equation for
the transition probability density function, recurrence relations are derived for the moments
of the time of first exit of jump-diffusions with Markovian switching. The results are used
to find the expectation of first passage time of some financial models.
Value Distribution for a Class of Small Functions in the Unit Disk
Authors: Gunsul Paul A.
Published: March 2011

If f is a meromorphic function in the complex plane, R. Nevanlinna noted that its characteristic function T(r, f) could be used to categorize f according to its rate of growth as |z | = r → ∞. Later H. Milloux showed for a transcendental meromorphic function in the plane that for each positive integer k, m(r, f(k)/f) = o(T(r, f)) as r → ∞, possibly outside a set of finite measure where m denotes the proximity function of Nevanlinna theory. If f is a meromorphic function in the unit disk D = {z:|z | < 1}, analogous results to the previous equation exist when . In this paper, we consider the class of meromorphic functions 𝒫 in D for which , , and m(r, f′/f) = o(T(r, f)) as r → 1. We explore characteristics of the class and some places where functions in the class behave in a significantly different manner than those for which holds. We also explore connections between the class 𝒫 and linear differential equations and values of differential polynomials and give an analogue to Nevanlinna′s five‐value theorem.
Yttrium-90 Radioembolization for Colorectal Cancer Liver Metastases: A Single Institution Experience
Authors: Nace Gary W. , Steel Jennifer L. , Amesur Nikhil , Zajko Albert , Nastasi Bryon E. , Joyce Judith , Sheetz Michael , Gamblin T. Clark
Published: March 2011

Purpose. We sought to evaluate our experience using yttrium-90 (90Y) resin microsphere hepatic radioembolization as salvage therapy for liver-dominant metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC).Methods. A retrospective review of consecutive patients with unresectable mCRC who were treated with90Y after failing first and second line systemic chemotherapy. Demographics, treatment dose, biochemical and radiographic response, toxicities, and survival were examined.Results. Fifty-one patients underwent90Y treatments of which 69% were male. All patients had previously undergone extensive chemotherapy, 31% had undergone previous liver-directed therapy and 24% had a prior liver resection. Using RECIST criteria, either stable disease or a partial response was seen in 77% of patients. Overall median survival from the time of first90Y treatment was 10.2 months (95% CI = 7.5–13.0). The absence of extrahepatic disease at the time of treatment with90Y was associated with an improved survival, median survival of 17.0 months (95% CI = 6.4–27.6), compared to those with extrahepatic disease at the time of treatment with90Y, 6.7 months (95% CI = 2.7–10.6 Conclusion:90Y therapy is a safe locoregional therapy that provides an important therapeutic option to patients who have failed first and second line chemotherapy and have adequate liver function and performance status.
EI of the Phosphotransferase System ofEscherichia coli: Mathematical Modeling Approach to Analysis of Its Kinetic Properties
Authors: Karelina T. A. , Ma H. , Goryanin I. , Demin O. V.
Published: March 2011

The mathematical model of the operation of the first enzyme of theEscherichia coliphosphotransferase system, EI, is proposed. Parameters of the kinetic model describing the operation of EI under different conditions are identified on the basis of a large amount of known experimental data. The verified model is employed to predict modes of operation of EI under bothin vivophysiological conditions andin vitrononphysiological conditions. The model predicts that underin vivophysiological conditions, the rate of phosphotransfer from EI to the second protein of the phosphotransferase system HPr by the dimer is much higher than by the monomer. A hypothesis is proposed on the basis of calculations that the transfer by a monomer plays a role in the regulation of chemotaxis. At submicromolar pyruvate concentration, the model predicts nonmonotonic dependence of the phosphotransfer rate on the substrate (PEP) concentration.
The Effect of the Anharmonicity in a Perturbation Estimate of the Self-Diffusion Coefficient
Authors: Indoh Takaki , Aniya Masaru
Published: March 2011

A perturbative expression for the self diffusion coefficient is derived by considering that the particles are executing anharmonic vibrations around the sites with local potential minima and jump to neighbor sites after a certain waiting time. The derived expression is a natural extension of the expression obtained by Zwanzig that assumes harmonic oscillations. The relation between the low frequency oscillation and the deviation from the harmonic behavior is also shown.
Marker-Assisted Breeding as Next-Generation Strategy for Genetic Improvement of Productivity and Quality: Can It Be Realized in Cotton?
Authors: Boopathi N. Manikanda , Thiyagu K. , Urbi B. , Santhoshkumar M. , Gopikrishnan A. , Aravind S. , Swapnashri Gat , Ravikesavan R.
Published: March 2011

The dawdling development in genetic improvement of cotton with conventional breeding program is chiefly due to lack of complete knowledge on and precise manipulation of fiber productivity and quality. Naturally available cotton continues to be a resource for the upcoming breeding program, and contemporary technologies to exploit the available natural variation are outlined in this paper for further improvement of fiber. Particularly emphasis is given to application, obstacles, and perspectives of marker-assisted breeding since it appears to be more promising in manipulating novel genes that are available in the cotton germplasm. Deployment of system quantitative genetics in marker-assisted breeding program would be essential to realize its role in cotton. At the same time, role of genetic engineering andin vitromutagenesis cannot be ruled out in genetic improvement of cotton.