bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxicological Profile of Chlorophenols and Their Derivatives in the Environment: The Public Health Perspective
Authors: Igbinosa Etinosa O. , Odjadjare Emmanuel E. , Chigor Vincent N. , Igbinosa Isoken H. , Emoghene Alexander O. , Ekhaise Fredrick O. , Igiehon Nicholas O. , Idemudia Omoruyi G.
Published: April 2013

Chlorophenol compounds and their derivatives are ubiquitous contaminants in the environment. These compounds are used as intermediates in manufacturing agricultural chemicals, pharmaceuticals, biocides, and dyes. Chlorophenols gets into the environment from a variety of sources such as industrial waste, pesticides, and insecticides, or by degradation of complex chlorinated hydrocarbons. Thermal and chemical degradation of chlorophenols leads to the formation of harmful substances which constitute public health problems. These compounds may cause histopathological alterations, genotoxicity, mutagenicity, and carcinogenicity amongst other abnormalities in humans and animals. Furthermore, the recalcitrant nature of chlorophenolic compounds to degradation constitutes an environmental nuisance, and a good understanding of the fate and transport of these compounds and their derivatives is needed for a clearer view of the associated risks and mechanisms of pathogenicity to humans and animals. This review looks at chlorophenols and their derivatives, explores current research on their effects on public health, and proffers measures for mitigation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Impacts on the Independent Relationships between Circulating Adiponectin Concentrations and Cardiovascular Metabolic Risk
Authors: Dessein Patrick H. , Norton Gavin R. , Badenhorst Margaret , Woodiwiss Angela J. , Solomon Ahmed
Published: April 2013

Adiponectin and leptin are likely involved in the pathophysiology of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and therefore potential new therapeutic targets. Adiponectin inhibition could be expected to enhance cardiovascular metabolic risk. However, it is unknown whether RA changes the influence of adipokines on cardiovascular metabolic risk. We determined whether RA impacts on the independent relationships of circulating leptin and adiponectin concentrations with cardiovascular risk factors and carotid intima-media thickness (cIMT) in 277 black African subjects from a developing population; 119 had RA. RA impacted on the relationships of adiponectin concentrations with lipid concentrations and blood pressure, independent of confounders including adiposity (interactionP<0.05). This translated into an association of adiponectin concentrations with more favorable lipid variables including HDL cholesterol (P=0.0005), non-HDL cholesterol (P=0.007), and triglyceride (P=0.005) concentrations, total cholesterol-HDL cholesterol (P=0.0002) and triglycerides-HDL cholesterol (P=0.0003) ratios, and higher systolic (P=0.0006), diastolic (P=0.0004), and mean blood pressure (P=0.0007) in RA but not non-RA subjects. Leptin was not associated with metabolic risk after adjustment for adiposity. The cIMT did not differ by RA status, and adipokine concentrations were unrelated to atherosclerosis. This study suggests that leptin and adiponectin inhibition may not alter overall cardiovascular risk and disease in RA.
Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism Associated with Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telengiectasia
Authors: Valentina Scarano , Daniele De Santis , Patrizia Suppressa , Patrizia Lastella , Mariano Lenato Gennaro , Vincenzo Triggiani , Carlo Sabbà
Published: April 2013

A 65-year-old man was referred to our clinic for the rehabilitation of right hemiparesis caused by ischaemic stroke. Hypertension, postphlebitic syndrome of lower limbs, frequent nose bleeding, and anemia were present in his history; in his adolescence, he was treated for idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Further investigations have revealed also microsomia, suggesting a clinical diagnosis of Kallmann syndrome, that is, an association, possible in males and females, of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism with olfactory deficits. A definite diagnosis of hereditary hemorrhagic telangiectasia was made based on clinical criteria and confirmed by genetic analysis.
Atypical Cogan's Syndrome
Authors: Queirós João , Maia Sofia , Seca Mariana , Friande António , Araújo Maria , Meireles Angelina
Published: April 2013

Background. Cogan’s syndrome is a rare clinical entity whose etiopathology is still unknown, and the treatment strategies are not clearly defined.Case. A 23-year-old male presented with symptoms of headache, peripheral facial palsy, persistent right hearing loss and bilateral papillitis. Workup excluded all infectious, granulomatous, neoplastic, and immune causes. The diagnosis of atypical Cogan’s syndrome was established, and the patient was treated with systemic corticosteroids and later on with cyclophosphamide and methotrexate. There were improvement of visual symptoms and stabilisation of left hearing.Conclusion. Cogan’s syndrome is a very rare disease with no specific biological tests for the diagnosis. The diagnostic exams are mostly important to exclude other etiologies. The atypical ocular and audiovestibular manifestations make the diagnosis difficult, delaying the institution of appropriate therapy which may result in profound bilateral deafness.
Sufficiency Criteria for a Class of -Valent Analytic Functions of Complex Order
Authors: Arif Muhammad
Published: April 2013

In the present paper, we consider a subclass of -valent analytic functions and obtain certain simple sufficiency criteria by using three different methods for the functions belonging to this class. Many known results appear as special consequences of our work.
Robustness of Operational Matrices of Differentiation for Solving State-Space Analysis and Optimal Control Problems
Authors: Tohidi Emran , Soleymani F. , Kilicman Adem
Published: April 2013

The idea of approximation by monomials together with the collocation technique over a uniform mesh for solvingstate-space analysisandoptimal controlproblems (OCPs) has been proposed in this paper. After imposing the Pontryagins maximum principle to the main OCPs, the problems reduce to a linear or nonlinear boundary value problem. In the linear case we propose a monomial collocation matrix approach, while in the nonlinear case, the general collocation method has been applied. We also show the efficiency of the operational matrices of differentiation with respect to the operational matrices of integration in our numerical examples. These matrices of integration are related to the Bessel, Walsh, Triangular, Laguerre, and Hermite functions.
Epiretinal Membrane after Laser In Situ Keratomileusis
Authors: Paciuc-Beja Miguel , Garcia Gerardo , Dalma Jose , Quiroz-Mercado Hugo
Published: April 2013

Multiple posterior segment complications can occur after LASIK. Posterior vitreous detachment, macular holes, retinal hemorrhages, retinal detachment, and several other complications have been described. A case of posterior vitreous detachment with epiretinal membrane in a young adult after LASIK is reported. LASIK surgeons must be aware of the possibility of posterior segment complications after surgery.
Structural Complexity of DNA Sequence
Authors: Liou Cheng-Yuan , Tseng Shen-Han , Cheng Wei-Chen , Tsai Huai-Ying
Published: April 2013

In modern bioinformatics, finding an efficient way to allocate sequence fragments with biological functions is an important issue. This paper presents a structural approach based on context-free grammars extracted from original DNA or protein sequences. This approach is radically different from all those statistical methods. Furthermore, this approach is compared with a topological entropy-based method for consistency and difference of the complexity results.
The Gut’s Little Brain in Control of Intestinal Immunity
Authors: de Jonge Wouter J.
Published: April 2013

The gut immune system shares many mediators and receptors with the autonomic nervous system. Good examples thereof are the parasympathetic (vagal) and sympathetic neurotransmitters, for which many immune cell types in a gut context express receptors or enzymes required for their synthesis. For some of these the relevance for immune regulation has been recently defined. Earlier and more recent studies in neuroscience and immunology have indicated the anatomical and cellular basis for bidirectional interactions between the nervous and immune systems. Sympathetic immune modulation is well described earlier, and in the last decade the parasympathetic vagal nerve has been put forward as an integral part of an immune regulation network via its release of Ach, a system coined “the cholinergic anti-inflammatory reflex.” A prototypical example is the inflammatory reflex, comprised of an afferent arm that senses inflammation and an efferent arm: the cholinergic anti-inflammatory pathway, that inhibits innate immune responses. In this paper, the current understanding of how innate mucosal immunity can be influenced by the neuronal system is summarized, and cell types and receptors involved in this interaction will be highlighted. Focus will be given on the direct neuronal regulatory mechanisms, as well as current advances regarding the role of microbes in modulating communication in the gut-brain axis.
Enhanced Prostacyclin Synthesis by Adenoviral Gene Transfer Reduced Glial Activation and Ameliorated Dopaminergic Dysfunction in Hemiparkinsonian Rats
Authors: Tsai May-Jywan , Weng Ching-Feng , Yu Nien-Chu , Liou Dann-Ying , Kuo Fu-San , Huang Ming-Chao , Huang Wen-Cheng , Tam Kabik , Shyue Song-Kun , Cheng Henrich
Published: April 2013

Prostacyclin (PGI2), a potent vasodilator and platelet antiaggregatory eicosanoid, is cytoprotective in cerebral circulation. It is synthesized from arachidonic acid (AA) by the sequential action of cyclooxygenase- (COX-) 1 or 2 and prostacyclin synthase (PGIS). Because prostacyclin is unstablein vivo, PGI2analogs have been developed and demonstrated to protect against brain ischemia. This work attempts to selectively augment PGI2synthesis in mixed glial culture or in a model of Parkinson’s disease (PD) by direct adenoviral gene transfer of prostacyclin biosynthetic enzymes and examines whether it confers protection in cultures orin vivo. Confluent mixed glial cultures actively metabolized exogenous AA into PGE2and PGD2. These PGs were largely NS398 sensitive and considered as COX-2 products. Gene transfer of AdPGIS to the cultures effectively shunted the AA catabolism to prostacyclin synthesis and concurrently reduced cell proliferation. Furthermore, PGIS overexpression significantly reduced LPS stimulation in cultures.In vivo, adenoviral gene transfer of bicistronic COX-1/PGIS to substantia nigra protected 6-OHDA- induced dopamine depletion and ameliorated behavioral deficits. Taken together, this study shows that enhanced prostacyclin synthesis reduced glial activation and ameliorated motor dysfunction in hemiparkinsonian rats. Prostacyclin may have a neuroprotective role in modulating the inflammatory response in degenerating nigra-striatal pathway.
Catalytic Synthesis of Pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidin-6-ol and Pyrazolo[3,4-d]pyrimidine-6-thiol Derivatives Using Nanoparticles of NaX Zeolite as Green Catalyst
Authors: Gharib Ali , Jahangir Manouchehr , Roshani Mina , Moghadasi Sara , Safee Reza
Published: April 2013

An efficient and environmental benign method is reported for the synthesis of some pyrazolopyrimidine derivatives using 3-methyl-1-phenyl-5-pyrazolone with carbonyl compounds in the presence of nanozeolite Nax catalysts, solvent-free and at reflux conditions. It is noteworthy to mention that this method of the synthesis requires less time, less temperature, and better yield.
Moving Target Oriented Opportunistic Routing Algorithm in Vehicular Networks
Authors: Ding Yu , Wang Wendong , Cui Yong , Gong Xiangyang , Wang Bai
Published: April 2013

In vehicular networks, the multihop message delivery from information source to moving vehicles presents a challenging task due to many factors, including high mobility, frequent disconnection, and real-time requirement for applications. In this paper, we propose a moving target oriented opportunistic routing algorithm in vehicular networks for message delivery from information source to a moving target vehicle. In order to adapt the constantly changing topology of networks, the forwarding decisions are made locally by each intermediate vehicle based on the trajectory information of the target vehicle. The simulation and real trace experiment show that our design provides an efficient message delivery with a higher success ratio, shorter success time, and lower transmission overhead compared with other reference approaches.
GPU-Based Cloud Service for Smith-Waterman Algorithm Using Frequency Distance Filtration Scheme
Authors: Lee Sheng-Ta , Lin Chun-Yuan , Hung Che Lun
Published: April 2013

As the conventional means of analyzing the similarity between a query sequence and database sequences, the Smith-Waterman algorithm is feasible for a database search owing to its high sensitivity. However, this algorithm is still quite time consuming. CUDA programming can improve computations efficiently by using the computational power of massive computing hardware as graphics processing units (GPUs). This work presents a novel Smith-Waterman algorithm with a frequency-based filtration method on GPUs rather than merely accelerating the comparisons yet expending computational resources to handle such unnecessary comparisons. A user friendly interface is also designed for potential cloud server applications with GPUs. Additionally, two data sets, H1N1 protein sequences (query sequence set) and human protein database (database set), are selected, followed by a comparison of CUDA-SW and CUDA-SW with the filtration method, referred to herein as CUDA-SWf. Experimental results indicate that reducing unnecessary sequence alignments can improve the computational time by up to 41%. Importantly, by using CUDA-SWf as a cloud service, this application can be accessed from any computing environment of a device with an Internet connection without time constraints.
Regularly -Convergence and Regularly -Cauchy Double Sequences of Fuzzy Numbers
Authors: Dündar Erdinç , Talo Özer , Başar Feyzi
Published: April 2013

In this paper, we introduce the notions of regularly , -convergence and regularly , -Cauchy double sequence of fuzzy numbers. Also, we study some properties of these concepts.
Administration of Glucosylceramide Ameliorated the Memory Impairment in Aged Mice
Authors: Lee Yeonju , Oliynyk Sergiy , Jung Jae-Chul , Han Jeong Jun , Oh Seikwan
Published: April 2013

The function and the role of glucosylceramide have not been well studied in the central nervous system. This study was aimed to investigate the possible roles of glucosylceramide in memory function in aged mice. Glucosylceramide (50 mg/kg, p.o.) showed memory enhancing activity after 3-month treatment in the aged mice (C56BL/6, 18–20 months old) through Y-maze, novel objective test, and Morris water maze test. Long-term treatment of glucosylceramide decreased the expression of iNOS and COX-2 in the brain of aged mice. The LPS-induced mRNA level of iNOS, COX-2, IL-1β, and TNF-αwas reduced by the acute treatment with glucosylceramide in adult mice. These results suggest that glucosylceramide plays an important role in anti-inflammatory and memory enhancement, and it could be a potential new therapeutic agent for the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
H∞Control for Flexible Spacecraft with Time-Varying Input Delay
Authors: Zhang Ran , Li Tao , Guo Lei
Published: April 2013

This paper is concerned withH∞control problem for flexible spacecraft with disturbance and time-varying control input delay. By constructing an augmented Lyapunov functional with slack variables, a new delay-dependent state feedback controller is obtained in terms of linear inequality matrix. These slack variables can make the design more flexible, and the resultant design also can guarantee the asymptotic stability andH∞attenuation level of closed-loop system. The effectiveness of the proposed design method is illustrated via a numerical example.
A Survival Case in a Severe Amlodipine Intoxication
Authors: El Houari T. , Haddiya I. , El Ouafi N. , Bazid Z.
Published: April 2013

Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are prescribed in a wide variety of cardiovascular conditions. Nevertheless, they remain a major cause of cardiovascular drug overdose that often leads to a lethal outcome. We report the case of an intoxication with amlodipine, which caused severe hypotension, in a young woman. The patient was initially treated with fluids, calcium gluconate, and Dobutamine without effect. She then received hyperinsulinemia euglycemia therapy. A rise in blood pressure (BP) was observed two hours after insulin was started. The next day, the insulin infusion was stopped and seven days later the patient was discharged from the hospital after psychiatric consultation. The positive inotropic effect of insulin therapy in our patient supports previous findings that suggest its use as a first-line therapy in the management of CCBs overdose.
Characteristics of Traffic Flow at Nonsignalized T‐Shaped Intersection with U‐Turn Movements
Authors: Fan Hong-Qiang , Jia Bin , Li Xin-Gang , Tian Jun-Fang , Yan Xue-Dong
Published: April 2013

Most nonsignalized T‐shaped intersections permit U‐turn movements, which make the traffic conditions of intersection complex. In this paper, a new cellular automaton (CA) model is proposed to characterize the traffic flow at the intersection of this type. In present CA model, new rules are designed to avoid the conflicts among different directional vehicles and eliminate the gridlock. Two kinds of performance measures (i.e., flux and average control delay) for intersection are compared. The impacts of U‐turn movements are analyzed under different initial conditions. Simulation results demonstrate that (i) the average control delay is more practical than flux in measuring the performance of intersection, (ii) U‐turn movements increase the range and degree of high congestion, and (iii) U‐turn movements on the different direction of main road have asymmetrical influences on the traffic conditions of intersection.
A Novel Elliptic Curve Scalar Multiplication Algorithm against Power Analysis
Authors: Liu Hongming , Zhou Yujie , Zhu Nianhao
Published: April 2013

Nowadays, power analysis attacks are becoming more and more sophisticated. Through power analysis attacks, an attacker can obtain sensitive data stored in smart cards or other embedded devices more efficiently than with any other kind of physical attacks. Among power analysis, simple power analysis (SPA) is probably the most effective against elliptic curve cryptosystem, because an attacker can easily distinguish between point addition and point doubling in a single execution of scalar multiplication. To make elliptic curve scalar multiplication secure against SPA attacks, many methods have been proposed using special point representations. In this paper, a simple but efficient SPA-resistant multiscalar multiplication is proposed. The method is to convert the scalar into a nonadjacent form (NAF) representation at first and then constitute it in a new signed digit representation. This new representation is undertaken at a small precomputation cost, as each representation needs just one doubling and 1/2 additions for each bit. In addition, when combined with randomization techniques, the proposed method can also guard against differential power analysis (DPA) attack.
Validity of a Diagnostic Scale for Acupuncture: Application of the Item Response Theory to the Five Viscera Score
Authors: Tomura Taro , Yoshimasu Kouichi , Fukumoto Jin , Takemura Shigeki , Sakaguchi Shunji , Miyai Nobuyuki , Miyashita Kazuhisa
Published: April 2013

In acupuncture therapy, diagnosis, acupoints, and stimulation for patients with the same illness are often inconsistent among between Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) practitioners. This is in part due to the paucity of evidence-based diagnostic methods in TCM. To solve this problem, establishment of validated diagnostic tool is inevitable. We first applied the Item Response Theory (IRT) model to the Five Viscera Score (FVS) to test its validity by evaluating the ability of the questionnaire items to identify an individual’s latent traits. Next, the health-related QOL scale (SF-36), a suitable instrument for evaluating acupuncture therapy, was administered to evaluate whether the FVS can be used to make a health-related diagnosis. All 20 items of the FVS had adequate item discrimination, and 13 items had high item discrimination power. Measurement accuracy was suited for application in a range of individuals, from healthy to symptomatic. When the FVS and SF-36 were administered to other subjects, a part of which overlap with the first subjects, we found an association between the two scales, and the same findings were obtained when symptomatic and asymptomatic subjects were compared regardless of age and sex. In conclusion, the FVS may be effective in clinical diagnosis.
Being a Nursing Home Resident: A Challenge to One's Identity
Authors: Riedl Maria , Mantovan Franco , Them Christa
Published: April 2013

Going into a nursing home can turn out to be a critical life experience if elderly people are afraid of losing their independence and identity after having moved into a nursing home. In order to find out what nursing home residents need in their first year after having moved into a nursing home to maintain their identity and self-determination, 20 problem-orientated interviews with residents of three nursing homes in the Austrian province of Salzburg were conducted and analysed based on content analysis according to Mayring. The participants of this study resist against having decisions taken away from them and fight for their independence and identity. In order to be able to cope with these strains, they need the help of family members, professionals, and identity-forming conversations in new social networks in the nursing home. The study participants draw enough strength from their faith in order to fight for their independence. They develop a new identity close to their previous identity by maintaining autonomy and mobility with a clear focus on the future.
Graph-Theoretic Models of Mutations in the Nucleotide Binding Domain 1 of the Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator
Authors: Knisley Debra J. , Knisley Jeff R. , Herron Andrew Cade
Published: April 2013

Cystic fibrosis is one of the most common inherited diseases and is caused by a mutation in a membrane protein, the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR). This protein serves as a chloride channel and regulates the viscosity of mucus lining the ducts of a number of organs. Although much has been learned about the consequences of mutations on the energy landscape and the resulting disrupted folding pathway of CFTR, a level of understanding needed to correct the misfolding has not been achieved. The most common mutations of CFTR are located in one of two nucleotide binding domains, namely, the nucleotide binding domain 1 (NBD1). We model NBD1 using a nested graph model. The vertices in the lowest layer each represent an atom in the structure of an amino acid residue, while the vertices in the mid layer each represent the residue. The vertices in the top layer each represent a subdomain of the nucleotide binding domain. We use this model to quantify the effects of a single point mutation on the protein domain. We compare the wildtype structure with eight of the most common mutations. The graph-theoretic model provides insight into how a single point mutation can have such profound structural consequences.
Temperature Dependent Mechanical Analysis of Chalcogenide (CdS, ZnS) Coated PET Films
Authors: Gupta Sandhya , Sharma Kananbala , Saxena N. S.
Published: April 2013

Commercial polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film has been used as flexible substrate, and chalcogenide materials such as CdS, ZnS have been coated separately on PET film using vacuum thermal evaporation method. The structural characterisation of CdS-PET and ZnS-PET films has been performed by X-ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The surface morphology of CdS-PET and ZnS-PET films has also been investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM). Temperature dependent mechanical study of chalcogenide-PET films has been carried out using Dynamic Mechanical Analyser (DMA). The stress-strain curves of chalcogenide coated PET films at room and elevated temperatures explain the mechanical response of these films under the different temperature.
Apoptosis of Rheumatoid Arthritis Fibroblast-Like Synoviocytes: Possible Roles of Nitric Oxide and the Thioredoxin 1
Authors: Li Huili , Wan Ajun
Published: April 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by synovial hyperplasia and progressive joint destruction. The impaired apoptosis of rheumatoid arthritis fibroblast-like synoviocytes (RA-FLS) is pivotal in this process. However, the molecular mechanisms responsible for the reduced apoptosis are not fully understood. Both nitric oxide and thioredoxin 1 as two important mediators are widely investigated in the pathogenesis of rheumatoid arthritis. Interestingly, studies have showed that thioredoxin 1 may serve as a master regulator of S-nitrosylation of caspase-3 to fine-tune apoptosisin vivo. Thus, it is anticipated that further investigations on the role of thioredoxin 1 in the S-nitrosylation and denitrosylation of caspase-3 in RA-FLS will likely provide a novel understanding of mechanisms implicated in the impaired apoptosis of RA-FLS. In this paper, we will provide an overview on pathways involved in the reduced apoptosis of RA-FLS and then discuss specially the possible roles of nitric oxide and the thioredoxin 1 redox system associated with apoptosis of RA-FLS.
Hip Fractures in Persons with Stroke
Authors: Andersson Åsa G. , Seiger Åke , Appelros Peter
Published: April 2013

Background. Our aim was to determine the incidence of hip fractures within two years after stroke, to identify associated factors, to evaluate which test instruments that best could identify people at risk, and to describe the circumstances that prevailed when they sustained their hip fractures.Method. A total of 377 persons with first-ever stroke were followed up for a 24-month period. Stroke severity, cognition, and associated medical conditions were registered. The following test instruments were used: National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, Mini-Mental State Examination, Berg Balance Scale, Timed Up & Go, and Stops Walking When Talking.Result. Sixteen of the persons fractured their hip within the study period, which corresponds to an incidence of 32 hip fractures per 1000 person-years. Persons with fractures more often had impaired vision and cognitive impairment and more had had previous fractures. Of the investigated test instruments, Timed Up & Go was the best test to predict fractures.Conclusion. The incidence of hip fractures in persons with stroke was high in this study. Persons with previous fractures, and visual and cognitive defects are at the greatest risk. Certain test instruments could be used in order to find people at risk, which should be targeted for fall preventive measures.
Dynamics Analysis of a Class of Delayed Economic Model
Authors: Huang Chuangxia , Peng Changlin , Chen Xiaohong , Wen Fenghua
Published: April 2013

This investigation aims at developing a methodology to establish stability and bifurcation dynamics generated by a class of delayed economic model, whose state variable is described by the scalar delay differential equation of the formd2p(t)/dt2=−μδ(p(t))(dp(t)/dt)−μbp(t−τ1) −μ(a0p(t−τ2)/(a1+p(t−τ2)))+μ(d0−g0). At appropriate parameter values, linear stability and Hopf bifurcation including its direction and stability of the economic model are obtained. The main tools to obtain our results are the normal form method and the center manifold theory introduced by Hassard. Simulations show that the theoretically predicted values are in excellent agreement with the numerically observed behavior. Our results extend and complement some earlier publications.
Efficacy of T2*-Weighted Gradient-Echo MRI in Early Diagnosis of Cerebral Venous Thrombosis with Unilateral Thalamic Lesion
Authors: Mitaki Shingo , Yamaguchi Shuhei
Published: April 2013

Cerebral venous thrombosis (CVT) is an uncommon cause of stroke with diverse etiologies and varied clinical presentations. Because of variability in clinical presentation and neuroimaging, CVT remains a diagnostic challenge. Recently, some studies have highlighted the value of T2*-weighted gradient-echo MRI (T2*WI) in the diagnosis of CVT. We report the case of a 79-year-old woman with CVT due to a hypercoagulable state associated with cancer. On the initial T2-weighted image (T2WI), there was a diffuse high-intensity lesion in the right thalamus, extending into the posterior limb of the internal capsule and midbrain. T2*WI showed diminished signal and enlargement of the right basilar vein and the vein of Galen. Even though there is a wide range of differential diagnoses in unilateral thalamic lesions, and a single thalamus lesion is a rare entity of CVT, based on T2*WI findings we could make an early diagnosis and perform treatment. Our case report suggests that T2*WI could detect thrombosed veins and be a useful method of early diagnosis in CVT.
Bilateral Tibial Tubercle Sleeve Fractures in a Skeletally Immature Patient
Authors: Desai Rasesh R. , Parikh Shital N.
Published: April 2013

Tibial tubercle sleeve fracture is a rare injury. In concept, it is similar to the patellar sleeve fracture in a skeletally immature patient. We describe a unique case of simultaneous bilateral tibial tubercle sleeve fractures in a 12-year-old boy. Radiographs and MRI confirmed the injury. The patient underwent open surgical repair of bilateral sleeve fractures with suture anchor fixation. At the final followup, 3 years after his initial injury, the patient demonstrated full knee function bilaterally without radiographic evidence of growth disturbances.
Controller Synthesis of Time Petri Nets Using Stopwatch
Authors: Heidari Parisa , Boucheneb Hanifa
Published: April 2013

Scheduling is often a difficult task specially in complex systems. Few tools are targeted at both modeling and scheduling of the systems. In controller synthesis, a scheduler is seen as a controller to manage shared resources and timing requirements of a system. This paper proposes a time Petri net-based approach for controller synthesis and finding a scheduler using stopwatch. The solution suggested here is particularly interesting for preemptive scheduling purposes. This paper deals with time Petri nets with controllable and uncontrollable transitions and assumes that a controllable transition can be suspended and retrieved when necessary. In fact, the paper supposes that every controllable transition can be associated with stopwatch. With this hypothesis, the objective is to model a system by time Petri nets and calculate subintervals where the system violates the given property. Then, the controller associates the corresponding controllable transitions with stopwatch to suspend them in their bad subintervals. The interesting advantage of this solution is that this approach synthesizes an ordinary time Petri net model before adding stopwatch. Therefore, complicated computations and overapproximations required during controller synthesis of time Petri nets associated with stopwatch are avoided.
Asymmetrical Impact of Allee Effect on a Discrete-Time Predator-Prey System
Authors: Wang Wenting , Jiao Yujuan , Chen Xiuping
Published: April 2013

A discrete-time predator-prey model is proposed with Leslie-type numerical response, and the asymmetrical influence of Allee effect on the proposed system is investigated. By mathematical analysis, locally stable conditions for the equilibrium points of the considered systems with or without Allee effect are obtained firstly. Furthermore, numerical simulation is used to verify the results and detect some new outcomes. The results show that Allee effect on predator leads the system to its stable state in much longer time. Conversely, the prey population with Allee effect makes it much faster. In particular, a large value of Allee effect on prey results in periodic dynamics of the system.
EMD 1214063 and EMD 1204831 Constitute a New Class of Potent and Highly Selective c-Met Inhibitors
Authors: Bladt Friedhelm , Faden Bettina , Friese-Hamim Manja , Knuehl Christine , Wilm Claudia , Fittschen Claus , Grädler Ulrich , Meyring Michael , Dorsch Dieter , Jaehrling Frank , Pehl Ulrich , Stieber Frank , Schadt Oliver , Blaukat Andree
Published: April 2013

Purpose: The mesenchymal–epithelial transition factor (c-Met) receptor, also known as hepatocyte growth factor receptor (HGFR), controls morphogenesis, a process that is physiologically required for embryonic development and tissue repair. Aberrant c-Met activation is associated with a variety of human malignancies including cancers of the lung, kidney, stomach, liver, and brain. In this study, we investigated the properties of two novel compounds developed to selectively inhibit the c-Met receptor in antitumor therapeutic interventions.

Experimental Design: The pharmacologic properties, c-Met inhibitory activity, and antitumor effects of EMD 1214063 and EMD 1204831 were investigated in vitro and in vivo, using human cancer cell lines and mouse xenograft models.

Results: EMD 1214063 and EMD 1204831 selectively suppressed the c-Met receptor tyrosine kinase activity. Their inhibitory activity was potent [inhibitory 50% concentration (IC50), 3 nmol/L and 9 nmol/L, respectively] and highly selective, when compared with their effect on a panel of 242 human kinases. Both EMD 1214063 and EMD 1204831 inhibited c-Met phosphorylation and downstream signaling in a dose-dependent fashion, but differed in the duration of their inhibitory activity. In murine xenograft models, both compounds induced regression of human tumors, regardless of whether c-Met activation was HGF dependent or independent. Both drugs were well tolerated and induced no substantial weight loss after more than 3 weeks of treatment.

Conclusions: Our results indicate selective c-Met inhibition by EMD 1214063 and EMD 1204831 and strongly support clinical testing of these compounds in the context of molecularly targeted anticancer strategies. Clin Cancer Res; 19(11); 2941–51. ©2013 AACR.
Reevaluating the Accelerated Approval Process for Oncology Drugs
Authors: Wilson Wyndham H. , Schenkein David P. , Jernigan Cheryl L. , Woodcock Janet , Schilsky Richard L.
Published: April 2013

For a new therapy to qualify for the accelerated approval pathway, it must treat a serious disease for which there is “unmet medical need”—defined as providing a therapy where none exists or providing a therapy that may be potentially superior to existing therapy. The increasing number of available therapies, coupled with the lack of accepted endpoints considered “reasonably likely to predict clinical benefit” and the lack of clarity early in development about circumstances in which a new product will qualify for accelerated approval, is pushing developers to pursue accelerated approval in heavily pretreated patients to fulfill an unmet need. To optimize the accelerated approval pathway, we propose here a reevaluation of what constitutes “unmet medical need” and “available therapy” in oncology. We also discuss ways for new endpoints to become qualified for use in supporting accelerated approval, and propose a structured process for pursuing accelerated approval. Clin Cancer Res; 19(11); 2804–9. ©2013 AACR.
Ginger: Is it Ready for Prime Time?
Authors: Stoner Gary D.
Published: April 2013

On the basis of substantial preclinical data showing the preventive efficacy of ginger and its constituents in vitro and in animal models, as well as a phase I pilot trial indicating that ginger extract is well tolerated in humans, Citronberg and colleagues conducted a pilot trial of ginger extract (2 g/day for 28 days) on biomarkers of cell proliferation [human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT), MIB-1], differentiation (p21waf1/cip1), and apoptosis (Bax, Bcl-2) in colonic mucosa from individuals at high-risk for colorectal cancer. Results from the trial suggest that ginger may reduce proliferation in normal-appearing colorectal epithelium and increase apoptosis relative to proliferation, especially in the differentiation zone of colon crypts. The authors suggest that these results support a larger study to confirm the pilot data. Before proceeding with a larger trial, however, it seems prudent to confirm ginger as a chemopreventive for colorectal cancer in animals, particularly when tested in postinitiation protocols and to identify reliable molecular biomarkers of effect that could be evaluated in clinical trials. Pharmacokinetic studies to examine the distribution and localization of ginger compounds and metabolites in the differentiation and proliferative zones of colonic crypts in animals and humans would also be informative. Finally, because the effects of ginger on normal colonic mucosa seem minimal, consideration should be given to the conduct of future trials in humans with premalignant colorectal disease. Cancer Prev Res; 6(4); 257–62. ©2013 AACR.
Prognostic Value and Therapeutic Potential of TREM-1 in Streptococcus pyogenes-Induced Sepsis
Authors: Horst Sarah A. , Linnér Anna , Beineke Andreas , Lehne Sabine , Höltje Claudia , Hecht Alexander , Norrby-Teglund Anna , Medina Eva , Goldmann Oliver
Published: April 2013

TREM-1 (triggering receptor expressed on myeloid cells) is a surface molecule expressed on neutrophils and macrophages which has been implicated in the amplification of inflammatory responses triggered during infection. In the present study, we have investigated the clinical significance of TREM-1 in Streptococcus pyogenes-induced severe sepsis in both experimentally infected mice as well as in patients with streptococcal toxic shock. We found that S. pyogenes induced a dose-dependent upregulation of TREM-1 in in vitro cultured phagocytic cells and in the organs of S. pyogenes-infected mice. Furthermore, we reported a positive correlation between serum levels of soluble TREM-1 (sTREM-1) and disease severity in infected patients as well as in experimentally infected mice. Hence, sTREM-1 may represent a useful surrogate marker for streptococcal sepsis. We found that modulation of TREM-1 by administration of the TREM-1 decoy receptor rTREM-1/Fc substantially attenuated the synthesis of inflammatory cytokines. More importantly, treatment of S. pyogenes-infected septic mice with rTREM-1/Fc or the synthetically produced conserved extracellular domain LP17 significantly improved disease outcome. In summary, our data suggest that TREM-1 may not only represent a valuable marker for S. pyogenes infection severity but it may also be an attractive target for the treatment of streptococcal sepsis.
Development and definition of a simplified scanning procedure and scoring method for Haemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound (HEAD-US)
Authors: Alberighi Ornella Della , Di Minno Giovanni , Graziano Ermelinda , Molinari Angelo Claudio , Pasta Gianluigi , Russo Giuseppe , Santagostino Elena , Tagliaferri Annarita , Tagliafico Alberto , Morfini Massimo , Martinoli Carlo
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to develop a simplified ultrasound scanning procedure and scoring method, named Haemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with UltraSound [HEAD-US], to evaluate joints of patients with haemophilic arthropathy. After an initial consensus-based process involving a multidisciplinary panel of experts, three comprehensive and evidence-based US scanning procedures to image the elbow, knee and ankle were established with the aim to increase sensitivity in detection of early signs of joint involvement while keeping the technique easy and quick to perform. Each procedure included systematic evaluation of synovial recesses and selection of a single osteochondral surface for damage analysis. Based on expert consensus, a simplified scoring system based on an additive scale was created to define the joint status and, in perspective, to offer a tool to evaluate disease progression and monitor the result of treatment in follow-up studies.
Beached Whales and Priests of God:
Authors: Boner Patrick J.
Published: April 2013

This essay examines the cometary theory of Johannes Kepler and his claim that an “ethereal spirit” could lead a comet to appear at a providential place and time. In his account of the comet of 1607, Kepler suggested that a spirit served as a navigational principle that steered the comet on a particular course. I argue that this principle was an extension of Kepler’s celestial physics and part of his larger conception of causes at work in the heavens. I also explore the critical response Kepler received from the theological faculty at the University of Leipzig, where he planned to publish his account. I explain why Kepler turned to natural philosophy to resolve the opposition of his religious authorities and how this was received as a foreign incursion on Sacred Scripture. In my final analysis, I discuss whether Kepler ultimately abandoned spiritual principles in his cometary theory and arrived at a system of celestial physics that was fully free of animistic ideas.
Labour Migration from Asian to GCC Countries: Trends, Patterns and Policies
Authors: Shah Nasra M.
Published: April 2013

The six oil-rich Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are among the largest recipients of temporary labor migrants in the world today with non-nationals comprising about 47% of their population. The upward trend in labor migration to the region has been especially pronounced since the early 1980s. Asian workers from Bangladesh, India, Indonesia, Pakistan, the Philippines and Sri Lanka constitute the major stock of migrants. The proportion of Asian relative to Arab workers has increased over time with the former group comprising about 60-70% of foreign workers in some countries. Data on annual outflows from sending Asian countries shows a consistent upward trend in labor migration during the 1990s and 2000s. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are currently the largest recipients of Asian workers. A majority of migrants are male. However, the number of female workers has registered a consistent increase over time as a result of the rising demand for female domestic workers. Among the male workers, half or more are employed in unskilled occupations in the Gulf.

The migration policies of the sending and receiving countries are at odds with each other. Sending countries aim to increase the outflows, primarily to enhance remittance receipts and curtail unemployment at home. Receiving countries aim to restrict migrant inflows and reduce migrant stock through concerted efforts towards nationalizing the labor force. Reconciliation of the above policies remains a challenge for the future.
Road to Nowhere? The Future for a Declaration on Fundamental Standards of Humanity
Authors: Crawford Emily
Published: April 2013

In the years following the adoption of the Additional Protocols to the Geneva Conventions in 1977, debate emerged regarding the extant lacunae in the international rules relating to armed conflict. It was argued that there were gaps in international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law with regards to so-called ‘grey-zone conflicts’ – armed conflicts that did not reach the minimum threshold of either Protocol II or Common Article 3. Therefore, it was proposed that a declaration outlining the minimum humanitarian standards applicable in all situations of violence and conflict be adopted. By 1990, this debate had crystallised around the Turku Declaration on Minimum Humanitarian Standards. However, progress on the declaration quickly stalled once discussion was moved to the United Nations. Since 1995, there have been nine reports by the Secretary-General on the question of fundamental standards of humanity to use the current terminology. Over the years, the scope and content the fundamental standards of humanity has become clearer, yet the adoption of a document on these fundamental standards is no more imminent than when the issue first moved to the United Nations. This article will therefore examine why and how this apparently vital piece of international policy has stalled.
The Taliban Layeha for Mujahidin and the Law of Armed Conflict
Authors: Shah Niaz A.
Published: April 2013

In 2010 the Taliban issued a third edition of their Layeha. The Layeha contains Rules and Regulations of Jihad for Mujahidin. This article first details the short history of the Layeha published by the Taliban. Subsequently its content is analysed and compared with the international law of armed conflict that applies in conflicts of an international and non-international character. The author demonstrates that, whilst some rules are incompatible or ambiguous, most rules of the Layeha are compatible with the international law of armed conflict. Compliance with the rules that are compatible could help to achieve the objectives of the law of armed conflict: to minimise unnecessary suffering in armed conflict. The author submits that considering that the Taliban are engaged in fighting in Afghanistan and that they have control of or influence in parts Afghanistan, it is encouraging that they have produced such a self-imposed code. Any minimum restraint, whether self-imposed or imposed by municipal or international law, is better than no restraint at all.
A taxonomic contribution to the genus Pseudovelia Hoberlandt, 1951 (Hemiptera: Veliidae) from China, with descriptions of ten new species
Authors: YE ZHEN , POLHEMUS DAN A. , BU WENJUN
Published: April 2013

Thirteen species of the genus Pseudovelia Hoberlandt are now known from China. Of these, P.longitarsa Andersen, 1983 is the only member of the genus previously recorded from China. P. pusilla Hecher, 1997 and P. tibialis tibialis Esaki & Miyamoto, 1955 are previously described species newly recorded from China. In addition, 10 new species are described as follows: P. anthracina sp. n., P. contorta sp. n., P. extensa sp. n., P. fulva sp. n., P. globosa sp. n., P. hsiaoi sp. n., P. longiseta sp. n., P. piliformis sp. n., P. taiwanensis sp. n., P. vittiformis sp. n. Photographs of the male dorsal habitus, male forelegs, male middle legs, male hind legs, male hind tarsal details and male genitalic structures are provided, accompa-nied by line drawings of male genitalic structures and a distribution map for all Chinese Pseudovelia species. A key to the males of all 13 Chinese Pseudovelia species is also provided to assist in future identification.
Three new species of triplefin blennies of the genus Enneanectes (Teleostei, Tripterygiidae) from the tropical eastern Pacific with a key to Pacific species of Enneanectes
Authors: ROSENBLATT RICHARD H. , MILLER ELIZABETH C. , HASTINGS PHILIP A.
Published: April 2013

Three new species of the triplefin blenny genus Enneanectes found in the Pacific Ocean off southern Mexico are de-scribed. Two, Enneanectes glendae and Enneanectes macrops, are mainland species, while the third, Enneanectes exsul, is endemic to the Islas Revillagigedo. A key to the five species of Enneanectes known from the tropical eastern Pacific is provided.