bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exercise in youth: High bone mass, large bone size, and low fracture risk in old age
Authors: Tveit M. , Rosengren B. E. , Nilsson J. Å. , Karlsson M. K.
Published: August 2014

Physical activity is favorable for peak bone mass but if the skeletal benefits remain and influence fracture risk in old age is debated. In a cross‐sectional controlled mixed model design, we compared dual X‐ray absorptiometry‐derived bone mineral density (BMD) and bone size in 193 active and retired male elite soccer players and 280 controls, with duplicate measurements of the same individual done a mean 5 years apart. To evaluate lifetime fractures, we used a retrospective controlled study design in 397 retired male elite soccer players and 1368 controls. Differences in bone traits were evaluated by Student's t‐test and fracture risk assessments by Poisson regression and Cox regression. More than 30 years after retirement from sports, the soccer players had a Z‐score for total body BMD of 0.4 (0.1 to 0.6), leg BMD of 0.5 (0.2 to 0.8), and femoral neck area of 0.3 (0.0 to 0.5). The rate ratio for fracture after career end was 0.6 (0.4 to 0.9) and for any fragility fracture 0.4 (0.2 to 0.9). Exercise‐associated bone trait benefits are found long term after retirement from sports together with a lower fracture risk. This indicates that physical activity in youth could reduce the burden of fragility fractures.
Water nanodroplets make a greater contribution to facial skin moisture levels in air‐conditioned rooms during winter than in summer
Authors: Ohno H. , Nishimura N. , Yamada K. , Shimizu Y. , Nishimura R. , Iwase S. , Sugenoya J. , Sato M.
Published: August 2014

Background/purpose

By performing experiments in air‐conditioned chamber, we previously demonstrated that the presence of water nanodroplets (mist) improved facial skin moisture levels without reducing water loss from the facial skin surface or inducing excessive humidity. Some previous studies have demonstrated that the epidermis is a less effective barrier to water in winter because the corneocytes that comprise facial skin become smaller in winter as skin turnover increases in cold environments. We hypothesized that it would be easier for mist to penetrate into the facial stratum corneum (SC) in winter than in summer. In the present study, we investigated the ability of mist to improve facial skin moisture levels in winter and summer.

Methods

We examined transepidermal water loss (TEWL) as an index of barrier function and skin conductance as an index of SC hydration at the forehead, lateral canthus, and cheeks in eight healthy Japanese females (mean ± SD: 45.5 ± 3.2 years) in the presence or absence of mist in February–March and July.

Results

In the absence of mist, skin conductance at the forehead and lateral canthus was significantly higher in summer than in winter, but these seasonal differences were diminished in the presence of mist. In the presence of mist, skin conductance was increased in winter and decreased in summer at the lateral canthus; however, these changes were not significant. Thus, our findings suggest that mist penetrates into the SC and improves skin moisture levels in winter.

Conclusion

We demonstrated that it is easier for mist to penetrate into the SC at the lateral canthus during winter than in summer. Thus, mist is expected to improve facial moisture levels in winter by penetrating into and remaining in the SC. Hence, mist could be used to help prevent facial skin from becoming dry in air‐conditioned rooms during winter.
Comparative study of temporary effect on the water content at different depths of the skin by hot and cold moisturizing formulations
Authors: Cortázar T. M. , Guzmán‐Alonso M. , Novoa H. , Riaño M.
Published: August 2014

Background

Researchers have studied the water content at different skin depths. Since skin differs among tissue depth, we sought to determine the depth variability of the water content after moisturizing formulation application. Furthermore, we compared the effects of formulations with different type of manufacturing processes (hot and cold process).

Methods

To characterize the variations in the water content at different depths in the skin, measurements were done on the center of the inner forearm middle line of 18 sitting healthy women, before and after 1, 3, and 5 h of the application of two different moisturizing formulations (hot and cold process). Measurements included stratum corneum hydration via capacitance (SC) at 1.25 MHz (30–40 μm), and dermal water via tissue dielectric constant (TDC) at 300 MHz to depths of 500, 1500, and 2500 μm.

Results

There were significant differences between the SC mean values at all evaluated time intervals after application of both formulations when compared to baseline before application (T0). The SC mean values at 1 and 3 h are higher than those of the 5 h post application for both formulations. When comparing the formulations, hot formulation shows higher SC levels at 3 and 5 h, than cold formulation. TDC mean values to skin depths of 500 and 1500 μm increased after the application for both formulations. This increase was statistically significant at 1 and 3 h, when compared with T0. At 5 h no increases were seen in the TDC for any of the formulations. When comparing the mean values of each time evaluated, there is no statistically significant difference between the two formulations at depth of neither 500 μm nor 1500 μm. TDC mean value to a depth of 2500 μm does not increase after the application of any of the formulations.

Conclusions

Hot and cold formulations are effective moisturizers; however, a distinct profile was obtained for each. When water content averages were compared, the effect of hot formulation in the superficial layers of the skin was greater and longer in time than those of the cold formulation. On the other hand, moisturizing formulations applied to the skin affected the dermis water content until depth of 1500 μm.
Efficacy of oclacitinib (Apoquel®) compared with prednisolone for the control of pruritus and clinical signs associated with allergic dermatitis in client‐owned dogs in Australia
Authors: Gadeyne Caroline , Little Peter , King Vickie L. , Edwards Nigel , Davis Kylie , Stegemann Michael R.
Published: August 2014

Background

Oral glucocorticoids are widely used to reduce pruritus and dermatitis associated with allergic dermatitis. Data suggest that oclacitinib, a Janus kinase inhibitor, is a safe and effective alternative.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of oclacitinib compared with prednisolone for the control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis in a single‐masked, controlled clinical trial with a randomized complete block design.

Animals

Client‐owned dogs (n = 123) with a presumptive diagnosis of allergic dermatitis and moderate to severe pruritus as assessed by the pet owner were enrolled.

Methods

Dogs were randomized to treatment with either oclacitinib (0.4–0.6 mg/kg orally twice daily for 14 days, then once daily) or prednisolone (0.5–1.0 mg/kg once daily for 6 days, then every other day) for 28 days. An enhanced visual analog scale (VAS) was used by owners to assess pruritus and by veterinarians to assess dermatitis, at all time points assessed.

Results

Both treatments produced a rapid onset of efficacy within 4 h. The mean reductions in pruritus and dermatitis scores were not significantly different between the treatments except on day 14, when reductions were more pronounced for oclacitinib than prednisolone (P = 0.0193 for owner pruritus scores; P = 0.0252 for veterinarian dermatitis scores). Adverse events were reported with similar frequency in both groups.

Conclusion and clinical importance

In this study, both oclacitinib and prednisolone provided rapid, effective and safe control of pruritus associated with allergic dermatitis, with substantial improvement in pruritus, reported by owners, and dermatitis, reported by veterinarians.
Performance Assessment of a Novel Solar and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Based Multigeneration System for Coastal Areas
Authors: Ahmadi Pouria , Dincer Ibrahim , Rosen Marc A.
Published: August 2014

A new multigeneration system based on an ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) system equipped with flat plate and PV/T solar collectors, a reverse osmosis (RO) desalination unit to produce fresh water, a single effect absorption chiller, and proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer is proposed and thermodynamically assessed. Both energy and exergy analyses are employed to determine the irreversibilities in each component and assess the system performance. A parametric study is performed to investigate the effects of varying design parameters and operating conditions on the system energy and exergy efficiencies. In addition, an economic assessment of the multigeneration system is performed, and the potential reduction in total cost rate when the system shifts from power generation to multigeneration are investigated.
Optimal Time-Varying Heat Transfer in Multilayered Packages With Arbitrary Heat Generations and Contact Resistance
Authors: Fakoor-Pakdaman M. , Ahmadi Mehran , Bagheri Farshid , Bahrami Majid
Published: August 2014

Integrating the cooling systems of power electronics and electric machines (PEEMs) with other existing vehicle thermal management systems is an innovative technology for the next-generation hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs). As such, the reliability of PEEM must be assured under different dynamic duty cycles. Accumulation of excessive heat within the multilayered packages of PEEMs, due to the thermal contact resistance between the layers and variable temperature of the coolant, is the main challenge that needs to be addressed over a transient thermal duty cycle. Accordingly, a new analytical model is developed to predict transient heat diffusion inside multilayered composite packages. It is assumed that the composite exchanges heat via convection and radiation mechanisms with the surrounding fluid whose temperature varies arbitrarily over time (thermal duty cycle). As such, a time-dependent conjugate convection and radiation heat transfer is considered for the outer-surface. Moreover, arbitrary heat generation inside the layers and thermal contact resistances between the layers are taken into account. New closed-form relationships are developed to calculate the temperature distribution inside multilayered media. The present model is used to find an optimum value for the angular frequency of the surrounding fluid temperature to maximize the interfacial heat flux of composite media; up to 10% higher interfacial heat dissipation rate compared to constant fluid-temperature case. An independent numerical simulation is also performed using Comsol Multiphysics; the maximum relative difference between the obtained numerical data and the analytical model is less than 6%.
Improving Thermal Properties of N-Nonadecane/Expanded Dolomite Composite Phase Change Material for Thermo-Regulating Textiles
Authors: Khosrsojerdi Mostaf , Majid Mortazavi Sayed
Published: August 2014

This paper mainly addressed preparation of a new n-nonadecane/expanded dolomite (ED) composite using vacuum impregnation method. This method was first used for textile thermal protection. In this method, n-nonadecane was applied as the phase change material (PCM) and ED was used as the supporting material in order to prepare and construct form-stable composite PCM. Composite properties were determined by FTIR and SEM techniques. Also the heat transfer measurement and differential scanning calorimetric (DSC) test were used to determine the thermal properties of composite on fabrics. The DSC results showed that freezing and melting temperatures of n-nonadecane in composite PCM have changed a little, indicating that there are no strong interactions between n-nonadecane molecules and the pore walls of ED. It was found that moisture transfer properties have substantial effects on textiles comfortable attributes. That is why moisture transfer properties were measured; the results show that the more fabric pores have been filled in composite PCM, which these changes cause moisture transfer reduction. The SEM results showed that the PCM was well absorbed in the porous network of the expanded materials. The results for DSC and temperature transfer also suggested that fabric temperature range for the amount of coated PCM depends on its area; namely, the more PCM is used in the fabric, the more heat for temperature increase will be needed. This is because as PCM increases in the composite, the latent heat storage density increases too; further, by adding n-nonadecane/ED composite to the textile surface; moisture and thermal transfer could be reduced.
Optimal Control of a Formula One Car on a Three-Dimensional Track—Part 1: Track Modeling and Identification
Authors: Perantoni Giacomo , Limebeer David J. N.
Published: August 2014

The identification of three-dimensional (3D) race track models from noisy measured GPS data is treated as a problem in the differential geometry of curves and surfaces. Curvilinear coordinates are adopted to facilitate the use of the track model in the solution of vehicular optimal control problems. Our proposal is to model race tracks using a generalized Frenet–Serret apparatus, so that the track is specified in terms of three displacement-dependent curvatures and two edge variables. The optimal smoothing of the curvature and edge variables is achieved using numerical optimal control techniques. Track closure is enforced through the boundary conditions associated with the optimal control problem. The Barcelona formula one track is used as an illustrative example.
Anisotropic Strain-Hardening Behavior of Mg–5%Sn–1%Ca Alloy Sheet at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Hasani G. H. , Mahmudi R.
Published: August 2014

Anisotropic strain-hardening behavior of the TX51 (Mg–5Sn–1Ca) magnesium alloy sheets was investigated in the temperature range of 25–300 °C and at an initial strain rate of 5 × 10−4 s−1. Tensile tests were carried out with the loading axis oriented at 0 deg, 45 deg, and 90 deg to the rolling direction (RD) to explore the effects of temperature on the anisotropic strain-hardening behavior of the sheets after hot rolling and annealing. The anisotropic strain-hardening behavior of the TX51 sheet was due to the crystallographic texture as well as mechanical fibering of the microstructure. The former was manifested by the development of a relatively sharp basal {0001} texture, and the latter was caused by alignment in the RD of CaMgSn coarse particles. Kocks–Mecking type plots showed stage III and stage IV strain-hardening behavior at all test temperatures. The directionality of flow stress and initial strain-hardening rates in stage III were discussed based on the Schmid factors of material.
Effect of Aqueous Nanosuspensions of Clay Minerals on Broilers' Performance and Some Selected Antibody Titers
Authors: Elshuraydeh Khaled N. , Al-Beitawi Nafez A. , Al-Faqieh Mohammad A.
Published: August 2014

The effect of using different concentrations of aqueous nanosuspensions of clay minerals (1%, 1.5%, and 2%) offered at different periods of time (one time per one or two weeks) compared with tap-water with and without antibiotics on growth performance and some selected antibody titer was studied. The experiment lasted from 1 to 36 days of age. The statistical findings of the experiment prove that aqueous nanosuspension 1% offered one time per two weeks significantly improved feed conversion ratio (FCR). Meanwhile, aqueous nanosuspension 2% offered one time per two weeks significantly gave the same effect on live body weight (LBW) and body weight gain (BWG) as did antibiotics. Concerning the findings that pertain to immunity, antibody titer against the most infectious diseases [Newcastle (ND), infectious bronchitis (IB), and infectious bursal disease (IBD)] were significantly improved by offering aqueous nanosuspension 1.5% offered one time per one and two weeks, and aqueous nanosuspension 1% offered one time per one week, respectively.
Kinetics of Oxidation of a 100% Gas-to-Liquid Synthetic Jet Fuel and a Mixture GtL/1-Hexanol in a Jet-Stirred Reactor: Experimental and Modeling Study
Authors: Mzé-Ahmed Amir , Dagaut Philippe , Dayma Guillaume , Diévart Pascal
Published: August 2014

Research activities on the combustion of synthetic jet fuels and bioderived jet fuels have increased notably over the last 10 yr in order to solve the challenging reduction of dependence of air transportation on petroleum. Within the European Community's Seventh Framework Programme, the combustion of a 100% GtL from Shell and a 80/20% vol. GtL/1-hexanol blend were studied in a jet-stirred reactor (JSR). This synthetic GtL fuel mainly contains n-alkanes, iso-alkanes, and cyclo-alkanes. We studied the oxidation of these alternative jet fuels under the same conditions (temperature, 550–1150 K; pressure, 10 bar; equivalence ratio, 0.5–2; initial fuel concentration, 1000 ppm). For simulating the oxidation kinetics of these fuels we used a new surrogate mixture consisting of n-dodecane, 3-methylheptane, n-propylcyclohexane, and 1-hexanol. A detailed chemical kinetic reaction mechanism was developed and validated by comparison with the experimental results obtained in a JSR. The current model was also tested for the auto-ignition of the GtL fuel under shock tubes conditions (φ = 1 and P = 20 atm) using data from the literature. Kinetic computations involving reaction paths analyses and sensitivity analyses were used to interpret the results. The general findings are that the GtL and GtL/hexanol blend have very similar reactivity to Jet A-1, which is important since GtL is a drop-in fuel that should have similar performance to the Jet A-1 baseline and 1-hexanol should not significantly affect the reactivity if it is to be used as an additive.
Independent dosimetric assessment of the model EP917 episcleral brachytherapy plaque
Authors: Aryal Prakash , Molloy Janelle A. , Rivard Mark J.
Published: August 2014

Purpose:

To investigate the influence of slot design on dose distributions and dose‐volume histograms (DVHs) for the model EP917 plaque for episcleral brachytherapy.

Methods:

Dimensions and orientations of the slots were measured for three model EP917 plaques and compared to data in the Plaque Simulator (PS) treatment planning software (version 5.7.6). These independently determined coordinates were incorporated into the MCNP Monte Carlo simulation environment to obtain dose from the plaques in a water environment and in a clinical environment with ocular structures. A tumor volume was simulated as 5 mm in apical height and 11 mm in basal diameter. Variations in plaque mass density and composition; slot length, width, and depth; seed positioning; and Ag‐marker rod positioning were simulated to examine their influence on plaque central axis (CAX) and planar dose distributions, and DVHs.

Results:

Seed shifts in a single slot toward the eye and shifts of the125I‐coated Ag rod within the capsule had the greatest impact on CAX dose distribution. A shift of 0.0994 mm toward the eye increased dose by 14%, 9%, 4.3%, and 2.7% at 1, 2, 5, and 10 mm, respectively, from the inner sclera. When examining the fully‐modeled plaque in the ocular geometry, the largest dose variations were caused by shifting the Ag rods toward the sclera and shifting the seeds away from the globe when the slots were made 0.51 mm deeper, causing +34.3% and −69.4% dose changes to the outer sclera, respectively. At points along the CAX, dose from the full plaque geometry using the measured slot design was 2.4% ± 1.1% higher than the manufacturer‐provided slot design and 2.2% ± 2.3% higher than the homogeneous calculation of PS treatment planning results. The ratio of D10 values for the measured slot design to the D10 values for the manufacturer‐provided slot design was higher by 9%, 10%, and 19% for the tumor, inner sclera, and outer sclera, respectively. In comparison to the measured slot design, a theoretical plaque having narrower and deeper slots delivered 30%, 37%, and 62% lower D10 doses to the tumor, inner sclera, and outer sclera, respectively.

Conclusions:

While the measured positions of the slots on the model EP917 plaque were in close agreement (<0.7 mm) with the PS values, small differences in the slot shape caused substantial differences in dose distributions and DVH metrics. Increasing slot depth by 0.1 mm decreased outer scleral dose by 20%, yet shifting the Ag rods in the seeds toward the globe by 0.1 mm increased outer scleral dose by 35%. The clinical medical physicist is advised to measure these types of plaques upon acceptance testing before clinical use to inspect slot shape and position for comparison with data used for treatment planning purposes.
Letting go of mucus
Authors: Wine Jeffrey J.
Published: August 2014

Defective release of mucus from airway glands is present at birth in cystic fibrosis

[Also see Report by

Hoegger
et al.

]
Science for lasting peace
Authors: McNutt Marcia
Published: August 2014

Thomas Barnett, a U.S. military geostrategist, has argued that we have leviathan armies that quickly win wars, only to lose the peace. To change that outcome, stability must be established by rebuilding the infrastructure, institutions, and economy of a war-torn nation. An outstanding example of science applied to nation rebuilding is the hyperspectral survey of Afghanistan by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) in 2007. This survey quantified 24 world-class mineral deposits (including iron, cobalt, gold, copper, and rare earth elements), positioning Afghanistan to become a major supplier of minerals (see the News story on p. 725), most of which are in demand for the manufacture of cell phones, computers, and renewable energy technologies.
An experiment in zero parenting
Authors: Marshall Eliot
Published: August 2014

A controversial study of Romanian orphans reveals long-term harm to the intellect.
High Frequencies of Polyfunctional CD8+NK Cells in Chronic HIV-1 Infection Are Associated with Slower Disease Progression
Authors: Ahmad Fareed , Hong Henoch S. , Jäckel Marc , Jablonka Alexandra , Lu I-Na , Bhatnagar Nupur , Eberhard Johanna M. , Bollmann Benjamin A. , Ballmaier Matthias , Zielinska-Skowronek Margot , Schmidt Reinhold E. , Meyer-Olson Dirk
Published: August 2014

Natural killer (NK) cells are effector and regulatory innate immune cells and play a critical role in the first line of defense against various viral infections. Although previous reports have indicated the vital contributions of NK cells to HIV-1 immune control, nongenetic NK cell parameters directly associated with slower disease progression have not been defined yet. In a longitudinal, retrospective study of 117 untreated HIV-infected subjects, we show that higher frequencies as well as the absolute numbers of CD8+CD3−lymphocytes are linked to delayed HIV-1 disease progression. We show that the majority of these cells are well-described blood NK cells. In a subsequent cross-sectional study, we demonstrate a significant loss of CD8+NK cells in untreated HIV-infected individuals, which correlated with HIV loads and inversely correlated with CD4+T cell counts. CD8+NK cells had modestly higher frequencies of CD57-expressing cells than CD8−cells, but CD8+and CD8−NK cells showed no differences in the expression of a number of activating and inhibiting NK cell receptors. However, CD8+NK cells exhibited a more functional profile, as detected by cytokine production and degranulation.

IMPORTANCEWe demonstrate that the frequency of highly functional CD8+NK cells is inversely associated with HIV-related disease markers and linked with delayed disease progression. These results thus indicate that CD8+NK cells represent a novel NK cell-derived, innate immune correlate with an improved clinical outcome in HIV infection.
The Composition of West Nile Virus Lipid Envelope Unveils a Role of Sphingolipid Metabolism in Flavivirus Biogenesis
Authors: Martín-Acebes Miguel A. , Merino-Ramos Teresa , Blázquez Ana-Belén , Casas Josefina , Escribano-Romero Estela , Sobrino Francisco , Saiz Juan-Carlos
Published: August 2014

West Nile virus (WNV) is an emerging zoonotic mosquito-borne flavivirus responsible for outbreaks of febrile illness and meningoencephalitis. The replication of WNV takes place on virus-modified membranes from the endoplasmic reticulum of the host cell, and virions acquire their envelope by budding into this organelle. Consistent with this view, the cellular biology of this pathogen is intimately linked to modifications of the intracellular membranes, and the requirement for specific lipids, such as cholesterol and fatty acids, has been documented. In this study, we evaluated the impact of WNV infection on two important components of cellular membranes, glycerophospholipids and sphingolipids, by mass spectrometry of infected cells. A significant increase in the content of several glycerophospholipids (phosphatidylcholine, plasmalogens, and lysophospholipids) and sphingolipids (ceramide, dihydroceramide, and sphingomyelin) was noticed in WNV-infected cells, suggesting that these lipids have functional roles during WNV infection. Furthermore, the analysis of the lipid envelope of WNV virions and recombinant virus-like particles revealed that their envelopes had a unique composition. The envelopes were enriched in sphingolipids (sphingomyelin) and showed reduced levels of phosphatidylcholine, similar to sphingolipid-enriched lipid microdomains. Inhibition of neutral sphingomyelinase (which catalyzes the hydrolysis of sphingomyelin into ceramide) by either pharmacological approaches or small interfering RNA-mediated silencing reduced the release of flavivirus virions as well as virus-like particles, suggesting a role of sphingomyelin-to-ceramide conversion in flavivirus budding and confirming the importance of sphingolipids in the biogenesis of WNV.

IMPORTANCE
West Nile virus (WNV) is a neurotropic flavivirus spread by mosquitoes that can infect multiple vertebrate hosts, including humans. There is no specific vaccine or therapy against this pathogen licensed for human use. Since the multiplication of this virus is associated with rearrangements of host cell membranes, we analyzed the effect of WNV infection on different cellular lipids that constitute important membrane components. The levels of multiple lipid species were increased in infected cells, pointing to the induction of major alterations of cellular lipid metabolism by WNV infection. Interestingly, certain sphingolipids, which were increased in infected cells, were also enriched in the lipid envelope of the virus, thus suggesting a potential role during virus assembly. We further verified the role of sphingolipids in the production of WNV by means of functional analyses. This study provides new insight into the formation of flavivirus infectious particles and the involvement of sphingolipids in the WNV life cycle.
Perivascular epithelioid cell tumour of the bladder
Authors: Tarplin Sarah , Osterberg E Charles , Robinson Brian D , Herman Michael P , Rosoff James S
Published: August 2014

A 39-year-old woman presented with a long history of pelvic pain and urinary urgency. Prior workup by her primary care doctor had been negative. The patient's gynaecologist ultimately referred her to a urologist following an ultrasound that revealed a possible bladder mass. MRI of the abdomen and pelvis demonstrated a 4 cm soft tissue lesion arising from the bladder. Cystoscopy showed an atypical mass on the anterior bladder wall, and pathological examination of the TURBT (transurethral resection of the bladder tumour) specimen revealed a perivascular epithelioid cell tumour (PEComa) with involvement of the detrusor muscle. The patient underwent a robotically assisted laparoscopic partial cystectomy. Final pathology confirmed a PEComa with negative margins. The patient had an uncomplicated postoperative course and is doing well following surgery. A surveillance cystoscopy at 6 months showed no evidence of recurrence. This case underscores the variability of clinical presentation of PEComas while proposing an appropriate method of surgical management.
The expression of chemokine receptors CXCR3 and CXCR4 in predicting postoperative tumour progression in stages I-II colon cancer: a retrospective study
Authors: Du Changzheng , Yao Yunfeng , Xue Weicheng , Zhu Wei-Guo , Peng Yifan , Gu Jin
Published: August 2014

Objectives

The prognostic significance of chemokine receptors in stage I/II colon cancer is unclear. We assessed the prognostic value of chemokine receptor CXCR3 and CXCR4 in stage I/II colon cancer.

Methods

145 patients with stage I/II colon cancer who underwent curative surgery alone from 2000 to 2007 were investigated. Chemokine receptor expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry. The associations between CXCR3, CXCR4 and clinicopathological variables were analysed using the χ2test, and the relationships between chemokine receptors and a 5-year disease-free survival were analysed by univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

The high-expression rates of CXCR3 and CXCR4 were 17.9% (26/145) and 38.6% (56/145), respectively. There were no significant associations between the expressions of CXCR3, CXCR4 and clinicopathological factors including gender, age, tumour location, histological differentiation, pathological stage, lymphovascular invasion and pretreatment serum carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA). The 5-year disease-free survival was not significantly different between low-expression groups and high-expression groups of CXCR3 and CXCR4. Multivariate analysis revealed that serum CEA and a number of retrieved lymph nodes, rather than chemokine receptors, were independent prognosticators.

Conclusions

CXCR3 and CXCR4 are not independent prognosticators for stage I/II colon cancer after curative surgery.
Perturbed Location of L1 point in the photogravitational relativistic restricted three-body problem (R3BP) with oblate primaries
Authors: Abd El-Bar S.E. , Abd El-Salam F.A. , Rassem M.
Published: August 2014

The restricted three-body problem is studied in the post-Newtonian framework. The primaries are assumed oblate radiant sources. The perturbed location of the L1 point is computed, and a series form of the location of this point is obtained as a new analytical result. To introduce a semianalytical view, a Mathematica 9 program is constructed so as to draw the location of L1 versus the mass ratio μ ∈ (0, 0.5) taking into account one or more of the considered perturbations. All the obtained illustrations are analyzed.
Effect of orexin-A (hypocretin-1) on hyperalgesic and cachectic manifestations of experimentally induced rheumatoid arthritis in rats
Authors: Mohamed Adham R. , El-Hadidy Wessam F.
Published: August 2014

Orexin-A has been shown to modulate pain sensation and increase appetite. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is characterized by joint destruction, deformity, hyperalgesia, and weight reduction. Aim: Evaluate the possible effect of orexin-A on hyperalgesic and cachectic manifestations in an adjuvant-induced arthritis (AIA) rat model. Methods: Forty adult male Wistar rats were distributed among 4 groups; I, normal controls; II, rats with AIA induced by intradermal injection of Mycobacterium butyricum, but with no other treatment; III, AIA rats treated daily with an intravenous injection of orexin-A for 8 days; and IV, AIA rats treated orally with dexamethasone for 8 days. The parameters we assessed were pain-associated behavior, body mass, hind paw volume, serum levels of nerve growth factor (NGF) and neuropeptide Y (NPY). Results: Orexin-A caused a significant reduction in pain sensation and NGF levels, and increased body mass and the levels of NPY, whereas treatment with dexamethasone led to significant reductions in paw swelling and pain sensation. Conclusion: Orexin-A has hypoalgesic properties and increases body mass, whereas dexamethasone has a potent anti-inflammatory effect. Therefore, the combination of orexin-A and dexamethasone should have a greater effect with respect to attenuating the manifestations and complications associated with RA.
Ground state properties of an anisotropic bilinear-biquadratic model
Authors: Wang Jinlong
Published: August 2014

In this paper, we consider anisotropic properties of a one-dimensional bilinear-biquadratic spin model with S = 1. The Hamiltonian with anisotropic parameter is studied numerically by using Lanczos exact diagonalization method at a critical point. It is found that the momentum corresponding to the ground state is affected by anisotropic parameter regularly, especially when total spin z-component is not zero.
A Fast Approach to Bimatrix Games with Intuitionistic Fuzzy Payoffs
Authors: Fan Min , Zou Ping , Li Shao-Rong , Wu Chin-Chia
Published: August 2014

The aim of this paper is to develop an effective method for solving bimatrix games with payoffs of intuitionistic fuzzy value. Firstly, bimatrix game model with intuitionistic fuzzy payoffs (IFPBiG) was put forward. Secondly, two kinds of nonlinear programming algorithms were discussed with the Nash equilibrium of IFPBiG. Thirdly, Nash equilibrium of the algorithm was proved by the fixed point theory and the algorithm was simplified by linear programming methods. Finally, an example was solved through Matlab; it showed the validity, applicability, and superiority.
Emergency Pancreatoduodenectomy with Preservation of Gastroduodenal Artery for Massive Gastrointestinal Bleeding due to Duodenal Metastasis by Clear Cell Renal Cell Carcinoma in a Patient with Celiac Artery Stenosis
Authors: Neofytou Kyriakos , Giakoustidis Alexandros , Gore Martin , Mudan Satvinder
Published: August 2014

Duodenal metastasis from renal cell carcinoma is rare, and even rarer is a massive gastrointestinal bleeding from such tumours. Coeliac occlusive disease, although rarely symptomatic, can lead to ischaemic changes with anastomotic dehiscence and leaks when a patient undergoes pancreatoduodenectomy. A 41-year-old man with known metastasis to the adrenal glands and the second part of the duodenum close to the ampulla of Vater from clear cell renal cell carcinoma was admitted to our department due to massive gastrointestinal bleeding from the duodenal metastasis. Endoscopic control of the bleed was not possible, while the bleeding vessel embolization was able to control the haemorrhage only temporarily. An angiography during the embolization demonstrated the presence of stenosis of the coeliac artery and also hypertrophic inferior pancreaticoduodenal arteries supplying the proper hepatic artery via the gastroduodenal artery (GDA). The patient underwent emergency pancreatoduodenectomy with preservation of the gastroduodenal artery. The patient had an uneventful recovery and did not experience further bleeding. Also the blood flow to the liver was compromised as shown by the normal liver function tests (LFTs) postoperatively. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of a preservation of the GDA during an emergency pancreatoduodenectomy.
In-Network Filtering Schemes for Type-Threshold Function Computation in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Riva Guillermo G. , Finochietto Jorge M.
Published: August 2014

Data collection in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) can become extremely expensive in terms of power consumption if all measurements have to be fetched. However, since multiple applications do not require data from all nodes but to compute a function over a smaller data set, much of the available data on the network can be considered irrelevant and not worthy of spending energy. In this context, in-network filtering schemes can be used to forward only relevant data towards a sink node for processing purposes. In this work, we propose and evaluate two schemes that can drive this filtering process. Both of them are based on the integration of metaheuristics and learning algorithms inspired by nature. In particular, we consider the computation of the maximum function as case study for these schemes. We investigate the trade-off between communications costs, which are directly associated with power consumption, and error costs due to fetching not all relevant data. We show by simulation that communication costs can be significantly reduced with respect to traditional schemes while keeping the computation error bounded.
Approximation Set of the Interval Set in Pawlak's Space
Authors: Zhang Qinghua , Wang Jin , Wang Guoyin , Hu Feng
Published: August 2014

The interval set is a special set, which describes uncertainty of an uncertain concept or setZwith its two crisp boundaries named upper-bound set and lower-bound set. In this paper, the concept of similarity degree between two interval sets is defined at first, and then the similarity degrees between an interval set and its two approximations (i.e., upper approximation setR¯(Z) and lower approximation setR_(Z)) are presented, respectively. The disadvantages of using upper-approximation setR¯(Z) or lower-approximation setR_(Z) as approximation sets of the uncertain set (uncertain concept)Zare analyzed, and a new method for looking for a better approximation set of the interval setZis proposed. The conclusion that the approximation setR0.5(Z) is an optimal approximation set of interval setZis drawn and proved successfully. The change rules ofR0.5(Z) with different binary relations are analyzed in detail. Finally, a kind of crisp approximation set of the interval setZis constructed. We hope this research work will promote the development of both the interval set model and granular computing theory.
Compilation of Existing Neutron Screen Technology
Authors: Chrysanthopoulou N. , Savva P. , Varvayanni M. , Catsaros N.
Published: August 2014

The presence of fast neutron spectra in new reactors is expected to induce a strong impact on the contained materials, including structural materials, nuclear fuels, neutron reflecting materials, and tritium breeding materials. Therefore, introduction of these reactors into operation will require extensive testing of their components, which must be performed under neutronic conditions representative of those expected to prevail inside the reactor cores when in operation. Due to limited availability of fast reactors, testing of future reactor materials will mostly take place in water cooled material test reactors (MTRs) by tailoring the neutron spectrum via neutron screens. The latter rely on the utilization of materials capable of absorbing neutrons at specific energy. A large but fragmented experience is available on that topic. In this work a comprehensive compilation of the existing neutron screen technology is attempted, focusing on neutron screens developed in order to locally enhance the fast over thermal neutron flux ratio in a reactor core.
Global Asymptotic Stability of a Nonautonomous Difference Equation
Authors: Gümüş Mehmet , Öcalan Özkan
Published: August 2014

We study the following nonautonomous difference equation:xn+1=(xnxn-1+pn)/(xn+xn-1),n=0,1,…, wherepn>0is a period-2 sequence and the initial valuesx-1,x0∈(0,∞). We show that the unique prime period-2 solution of the equation above is globally asymptotically stable.
Bian Zheng Lun Zhi as a Complementary and Alternative Treatment for Menstrual Cramps in Women with Dysmenorrhea: A Prospective Clinical Observation
Authors: Lin Pin-Yi , Tsai Yueh-Ting , Lai Jung-Nien , Yeh Chia-Hao , Fang Ruei-Chi
Published: August 2014

Background. Limited scientific evidence supports the positive effects of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for treating dysmenorrhea. Thus, an observation period of 3 months could verify the ancient indication that TCM treatments effectively alleviate menstrual cramps in women with primary dysmenorrhea or endometriosis. Methods. A prospective, nonrandomized study (primary dysmenorrhea and endometriosis groups) was conducted in women with dysmenorrhea for more than three consecutive menstrual cycles. All patients received TCM prescriptions based on bian zheng lun zhi theory 14 days before menstruation for a period of 12 weeks. Pain intensity was evaluated using a 10‐cm visual analogue scale and two validated questionnaires (the Menstrual Distress Questionnaire and the World Health Organization Quality of Life questionnaire). Results. Of the initial 70 intent‐to‐treat participants, the women with dysmenorrhea reported significant alleviation of cramps during menstruation after the 12‐week TCM treatment. Mixed model analysis revealed that TCM prescriptions were more effective in alleviating fatigue, hot flashes, dizziness, painful breasts, excitement, and irritability in the primary dysmenorrhea group (N = 36) than in the endometriosis group (N = 34). Conclusion. TCM prescriptions based on syndrome differentiation theory might be a potentially viable choice for treating painful menstruation and premenstrual symptoms after ruling out endometriosis.
Heavy Traffic Feasible Hybrid Intracycle and Cyclic Sleep for Power Saving in 10G-EPON
Authors: Hu Xintian , Wang Liqian , Zhang Zhiguo , Chen Xue
Published: August 2014

Energy consumption in optical access networks costs carriers substantial operational expense (OPEX) every year and is one of contributing factors for the global warming. To reduce energy consumption in the 10-gigabit Ethernet passive optical network (10G-EPON), a hybrid intracycle and cyclic sleep mechanism is proposed in this paper. Under heavy traffic load, optical network units (ONUs) can utilize short idle slots within each scheduling cycle to enter intracycle sleep without postponing data transmission. In this way, energy conservation is achieved even under heavy traffic load with quality of service (QoS) guarantee. Under light traffic load, ONUs perform long cyclic sleep for several scheduling cycles. The adoption of cyclic sleep instead of intracycle sleep under light traffic load can reduce unnecessary frequent transitions between sleep and full active work caused by using intracycle sleep. Further, the Markov chain of the proposed mechanism is established. The performances of the proposed mechanism and existing approaches are analyzed quantitatively based on the chain. For the proposed mechanism, power saving ability with QoS guarantee even under heavy traffic and better power saving performance than existing approaches are verified by the quantitative analysis. Moreover, simulations validate the above conclusions based on the chain.
Phase Diagrams of Smart Copolymers Poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and Poly(sodium acrylate)
Authors: Zarzyka Iwona , Di Lorenzo Maria Laura , Pyda Marek
Published: August 2014

The phase behavior of linear poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNIPA), linear copolymer poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) and poly(sodium acrylate) (PNIPA-SA), and chemically cross-linked PNIPA in water has been determined by temperature modulated differential scanning calorimetry (TM-DSC). Experiments related to linear polymers (PNIPA and PNIPA-SA) indicated nontypical demixing/mixing behavior with a lower critical solution temperature (LCST), which do not correspond to the three classical types of limiting critical behavior. Some similarities and differences are observed in comparison to our literature data using standard TM-DSC for PNIPA/water. Furthermore no influence of composition cross-linked PNIPA/water system on demixing/mixing temperature was observed.
Ananlysis of Carbon Emission Reduction and Power Dominance between Single Manufacturer and Single Retailer in Regulatory Cap and Trade System
Authors: Xia Liang-jie , Zhi Hua-wei
Published: August 2014

In the cap and trade system, the paper analyses the Stackelberg game between the power asymmetrical retailer and manufacturer and designs a side-payment self-enforcing contract to resolve some arguments that the existing research overemphasizes spontaneity of participation in side-payment contracts design based on supply chain coordination and does not consider rationality and fairness of allocation of profit increment. Also, the numerical analysis was given. The research shows some important conclusions: in the supply chain, the dominant manufacturer is not able to encourage the retailer to improve its promotion level by increasing its carbon cutting level, but the optimal emission reduction level increases with the dominant retailer’s promotion level; the optimal promotion level, emission reduction, and product demand in a retailer leading supply chain are higher than those in a supply chain dominated by manufacturer; with the new side-payment self-enforcing contract, decentralized decision according to individual rationality incurs a collective reason effect in the centralized setting.
Effectiveness of Multiple Daily Injections or Continuous Subcutaneous Insulin Infusion for Children with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus in Clinical Practice
Authors: Gong Chun-xiu , Wei Li-ya , Wu Di , Cao Bing-yan , Meng Xi , Wang Lin-lin
Published: August 2014

Aims. To determine whether multiple daily injections (MDIs) or continuous subcutaneous insulin infusion (CSII) contributes to better glucose control in children with different type 1 diabetes duration.Methods. Subjects were grouped according to early (≤1 year after disease onset; 1A) or late (1–3 years after onset; 2A) MDIs/CSII treatment initiation. Corresponding control groups (1B, 2B) received insulin injections twice daily.Results. HbA1c levels were consistently lower in group 1A than in group 1B (6 months (T2): 7.37% versus 8.21%; 12 months (T3): 7.61% versus 8.41%; 24/36 months (T4/T5): 7.61% versus 8.72%; allP<0.05), but were lower in group 2A than in group 2B only at T2 (8.36% versus 9.19%;P=0.04). Levels were lower in group 1A than in group 2A when disease duration was matched (7.61% versus 8.49%;P<0.05). Logistic regression revealed no correlation between HbA1c level and MDIs/CSII therapy. HbA1c levels were only negatively related to insulin dosage.Conclusions. Blood glucose control was better in patients receiving MDIs/CSII than in those receiving conventional treatment. Early MDIs/CSII initiation resulted in prolonged maintenance of low HbA1c levels compared with late initiation. MDIs/CSII therapy should be combined with comprehensive management.
Acoustic Emission Monitoring of Multicell Reinforced Concrete Box Girders Subjected to Torsion
Authors: Bagherifaez Marya , Behnia Arash , Majeed Abeer Aqeel , Hwa Kian Chai
Published: August 2014

Reinforced concrete (RC) box girders are a common structural member for road bridges in modern construction. The hollow cross-section of a box girder is ideal in carrying eccentric loads or torques introduced by skew supports. This study employed acoustic emission (AE) monitoring on multicell RC box girder specimens subjected to laboratory-based torsion loading. Three multicell box girder specimens with different cross-sections were tested. The aim is to acquire AE analysis data indicative for characterizing torsion fracture in the box girders. It was demonstrated through appropriate parametric analysis that the AE technique could be utilized to effectively classify fracture developed in the specimens for describing their mechanical behavior under torsion. AE events localization was presented to illustrate the trend of crack and damage propagation in different stages of fracture. It could be observed that spiral-like patterns of crack were captured through AE damage localization system and damage was quantified successfully in different stages of fracture by using smoothedb-value analysis.