bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Observer-Based Adaptive Iterative Learning Control Using Filtered-FNN Design for Robotic Systems
Authors: Wang Ying-Chung , Chien Chiang-Ju
Published: February 2014

An observer-based adaptive iterative learning control using a filtered fuzzy neural network is proposed for repetitive tracking control of robotic systems. A state tracking error observer is introduced to design the iterative learning controller using only the measurement of joint position. We first derive an observation error model based on the state tracking error observer. Then, by introducing some auxiliary signals, the iterative learning controller is proposed based on the use of an averaging filter. The main control force consists of a filtered fuzzy neural network used to approximate for unknown system nonlinearity, a robust learning term used to compensate for uncertainty, and a stabilization term used to guarantee the boundedness of internal signals. The adaptive laws combining time domain and iteration domain adaptation are presented to ensure the convergence of learning error. We show that all the adjustable parameters as well as internal signals remain bounded for all iterations. The norm of output tracking error will asymptotically converge to a tunable residual set as iteration goes to infinity.
P-bRS: A Physarum-Based Routing Scheme for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Zhang Mingchuan , Wei Wangyang , Zheng Ruijuan , Wu Qingtao
Published: February 2014

Routing in wireless sensor networks (WSNs) is an extremely challenging issue due to the features of WSNs. Inspired by the large and single-celled amoeboid organism,slime mold Physarum polycephalum, we establish a novel selecting next hop model (SNH). Based on this model, we present a novel Physarum-based routing scheme (P-bRS) for WSNs to balance routing efficiency and energy equilibrium. In P-bRS, a sensor node can choose the proper next hop by using SNH which comprehensively considers the distance, energy residue, and location of the next hop. The simulation results show how P-bRS can achieve the effective trade-off between routing efficiency and energy equilibrium compared to two famous algorithms.
Clinical Significance of Survivin Expression in Patients with Urothelial Carcinoma
Authors: Chen Hsin-An , Su Chih-Ming , Hsieh Hsiao-Yen , Tung Chun-Liang , Hsu Cheng-Da , Wang Yuan-Hung , Shen Cheng-Huang
Published: February 2014

Background. Survivin is a member of the inhibitors of apoptosis protein family that plays an important role in carcinogenesis. Here, we examined the association between survivin expression and clinical outcome in urothelial carcinoma of the bladder (UCB).Methods. A total of 56 histopathologically confirmed UCB patients were recruited from the Department of Urology of Chiayi Christian Hospital from August 2007 to May 2009. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was used to detect the survivin expression in tumor tissues. The –31 C/G polymorphism insurvivinpromoter region was determined by polymerase chain reaction-restricted fragment length polymorphism.Results. The frequency of high survivin expression was significantly higher in muscle-invasive tumors (66.6%) than in non-muscle-invasive tumors (34.2%) (P=0.042) and in poorly differentiated (85.7%) tumors than in moderately differentiated tumors (30.8%) (P=0.0014). The higher frequency of risk genotypes (C/C and C/G) was found in the median (72.7%) and high (68.0%) survivin expression groups. The multivariate analysis showed that a high survivin expression level was a potential predictive biomarker of poor overall survival (P=0.02).Conclusion. Our results suggest that the high survivin expression was associated with tumor stage and grade and may present a predictive marker of overall survival in UCB.
Comparisons of Costs between Black Caribbean and White British Patients with Advanced Multiple Sclerosis in the UK
Authors: Smith Wayne , McCrone Paul , Goddard Cassie , Gao Wei , Burman Rachel , Jackson Diana , Higginson Irene , Silber Eli , Koffman Jonathan
Published: February 2014

Background. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is now more common among black and minority ethnic groups in the UK but little is known about the costs of care amongst different ethnic groups.Objective. This study examined and compared service use and costs for people severely affected with MS from Black Caribbean (BC) and White British (WB) backgrounds in the UK and identified predictors of cost for both groups.Method. Population-based cross-sectional study of 43 BC and 43 WB patients with MS (EDSS ≥ 6) and their informal caregivers recruited from an MS service in southeast London. Interviews collected data on health and social service use and informal care support. Costs were calculated using UK unit cost data. Using regression analyses we compared costs between the ethnic groups and identified possible predictors of cost.Results. The mean (SD) costs for the WB and BC groups were£25,778 (£39,387) and£23,186 (£30,433), respectively. Results identified no significant difference in total cost between the two ethnic groups. The EDSS score alone was a significant predictor of cost.Conclusion. Similar costs between ethnic groups indicate that with regard to this MS service and geographical area, access to care was not affected by ethnicity.
Epidemiology of Orthopedic Fractures and Other Injuries among Inpatients Admitted due to Traffic Accidents: A 10-Year Nationwide Survey in Taiwan
Authors: Pan Ren-Hao , Chang Nien-Tzu , Chu Dachen , Hsu Kuo-Fang , Hsu Yuan-Nian , Hsu Jin-Chyr , Tseng Lin-Yu , Yang Nan-Ping
Published: February 2014

To investigate the major injury patterns associated with traffic accidents and evaluate the risk factors of the main injury, a survey of Taiwan’s national insurance admission data between 2002 and 2011 was performed. The incidence of traffic-accidents-related hospitalization was between 9.17% and 11.54% and the average mortality rate of the inpatients admitted due to traffic accidents was 0.68%. Of all inpatients due to road traffic accidents in Taiwan, orthopedic fractures were the most common injuries that accounted for 29.36% of them. There were a total of 391,197 cases of three orthopedic fracture groups that were divided into (1) fracture of upper limb, (2) fracture of lower limb, and (3) fracture of spine and trunk. An increase in national medical cost used for inpatients with orthopedic fractures was noted and ranged from US$ 45.6 million to US$ 86 million annually. These orthopedic fracture patterns were frequently associated with other injuries especially head injuries (ranged from 14% to 26%). A significant relation to male gender, older age, low income, and admission to high-level hospital to the observed fracture patterns was observed.
Effects of Subchronic Exposure of Diclofenac on Growth, Histopathological Changes, and Oxidative Stress in Zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Praskova Eva , Plhalova Lucie , Chromcova Lucie , Stepanova Stanislava , Bedanova Iveta , Blahova Jana , Hostovsky Martin , Skoric Misa , Maršálek Petr , Voslarova Eva , Svobodova Zdenka
Published: February 2014

The aim of this study was to investigate effects of subchronic exposure to sublethal levels of diclofenac on growth, oxidative stress, and histopathological changes inDanio rerio. The juvenile growth tests were performed onDanio rerioaccording to OECD method number 215. Fish at the age of 20 days were exposed to the diclofenac environmental concentration commonly detected in the Czech rivers (0.02 mg L−1) and the range of sublethal concentrations of diclofenac (5, 15, 30, and 60 mg L−1) for 28 days. A significant decrease (P<0.01) in the fish growth caused by diclofenac was observed in the concentrations of 30 and 60 mg L−1. The identified value of LOEC (lowest observed effect concentration) was 15 mg L−1of diclofenac and NOEC (no observed effect concentration) value was 5 mg L−1of diclofenac. We did not find histopathological changes and changes of selected parameters of oxidative stress (glutathione S-transferase, glutathione reductase) in tested fish. The environmental concentration of diclofenac in Czech rivers did not have any effect on growth, selected oxidative stress parameters (glutathione S-transferase, glutathione reductase), or histopathological changes inDanio reriobut it could have an influence on lipid peroxidation.
Clinical Outcomes of Tibial Components with Modular Stems Used in Primary TKA
Authors: Durig Nicole , Pace Thomas , Broome Brandon , Osuji Obi , Harman Melinda K.
Published: February 2014

Due to the known potential for fretting and corrosion at modular junctions in orthopaedic implants, this retrospective study evaluated radiographic and clinical outcomes of 85 primary TKA patients implanted with modular stemmed tibial components and followed up for an average of 82 months. There was low incidence of tibial radiolucent lines, excellent functional outcomes, and no complications associated with stem modularity. The findings were comparable to the historical control study involving 107 TKA with a nonmodular tibial stem design. When using surface cemented tibial components combined with a constrained polyethylene bearing, modular stems appear to be a viable option for primary TKA when adequate fixation and rotational stability are maintained.
Acute Neonatal Parotitis with Late-Onset Septic Shock due toStreptococcus agalactiae
Authors: Boulyana M.
Published: February 2014

Acute neonatal parotitis (ANP) is a very rare disease. Most cases are managed conservatively; early antibiotics and adequate hydration may reduce the need for surgery. The most common cause of ANP isStaphylococcus aureus. We report a rare case of acute neonatal parotitis with late-onset septic shock due toStreptococcus agalactiae. The diagnosis was confirmed with ultrasound and isolation ofStreptococcus agalactiaefrom blood culture. The patient was treated successfully with 10 days of intravenous antibiotics and supportive measures. Despite being rare, streptococcal ANP should be considered in the etiological diagnosis of neonatal sepsis. Early diagnosis and appropriate antibiotic might prevent serious complications.
Iatrogenic Injury of Profunda Femoris Artery Branches after Intertrochanteric Hip Screw Fixation for Intertrochanteric Femoral Fracture: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Patelis Nikolaos , Koutsoumpelis Andreas , Papoutsis Konstantinos , Kouvelos George , Vergadis Chrysovalantis , Mourikis Anastasios , Georgopoulos Sotiris E.
Published: February 2014

A case of arterial rupture of the profunda femoris arterial branches, following dynamic hip screw (DHS) fixation for an intertrochanteric femoral fracture, is presented. Bleeding is controlled by coil embolization, but, later on, the patient underwent orthopedic material removal due to an infection of a large femoral hematoma.
Prediction of Driving Safety in Individuals with Homonymous Hemianopia and Quadrantanopia from Clinical Neuroimaging
Authors: Vaphiades Michael S. , Kline Lanning B. , McGwin Gerald , Owsley Cynthia , Shah Ritu , Wood Joanne M.
Published: February 2014

Background. This study aimed to determine whether it is possible to predict driving safety of individuals with homonymous hemianopia or quadrantanopia based upon a clinical review of neuroimages that are routinely available in clinical practice.Methods. Two experienced neuroophthalmologists viewed a summary report of the CT/MRI scans of 16 participants with homonymous hemianopic or quadrantanopic field defects which indicated the site and extent of the lesion and they made predictions regarding whether participants would be safe/unsafe to drive. Driving safety was independently defined at the time of the study using state-recorded motor vehicle crashes (all crashes and at-fault) for the previous 5 years and ratings of driving safety determined through a standardized on-road driving assessment by a certified driving rehabilitation specialist.Results. The ability to predict driving safety was highly variable regardless of the driving safety measure, ranging from 31% to 63% (kappa levels ranged from −0.29 to 0.04). The level of agreement between the neuroophthalmologists was only fair (kappa = 0.28).Conclusions. Clinical evaluation of summary reports of currently available neuroimages by neuroophthalmologists is not predictive of driving safety. Future research should be directed at identifying and/or developing alternative tests or strategies to better enable clinicians to make these predictions.
Evaluation of Antidiabetic and Antioxidant Properties ofBrucea javanicaSeed
Authors: Ablat Abdulwali , Mohamad Jamaludin , Awang Khalijah , Shilpi Jamil A. , Arya Aditya
Published: February 2014

The ethanol extract ofB. javanicaseed was fractionated with solvents of different polarities and tested for antioxidant activities by several assays including DPPH radical scavenging activity, ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP), ferrous ion chelating activity (FCA), and nitric oxide radical scavenging activity (NORSA) along with their polyphenolic contents. Antidiabetic activity was evaluated both in vitro and in vivo using a glycogen phosphorylaseα(GPα) inhibition assay and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in nondiabetic rats. The ethyl acetate fraction (EAF), rich in tannin, exhibited the strongest antioxidant activities to DPPH, FRAP, and NORSA, except for FCA. The EAF also exerted a dose-depended inhibition of GPα(IC50= 0.75 mg/ml). Further evaluation of hypoglycemic effect on OGGT indicated that rats treated with EAF (125 mg/kg bw) showed a 39.91% decrease (P < 0.05) in blood glucose levels at 30 min, and continuous fall (P < 0.05) of 28.89% and 20.29% was observed in the following hours (60 and 90 min) compared to the normal control during OGTT. The EAF was applied to polyamide column chromatography, and the resulting tannin-free fraction was tested for both GPαinhibition and antioxidant (DPPH only) activity. The GPαinhibitory activity was retained, while antioxidant activity was lost (4.6-fold) after tannin removal. These results concluded that the GPαinhibitory activity initially detected was primarily due to the compounds other than tannins, whereas antioxidant activity was mainly due to the tannins.
Carbon Black Particle Exhibits Size Dependent Toxicity in Human Monocytes
Authors: Sahu Devashri , Kannan G. M. , Vijayaraghavan R.
Published: February 2014

Increased levels of particulate air pollution are associated with increased respiratory and cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Some epidemiologic and toxicological researches suggest ultrafine particles (<100 nm) to be more harmful per unit mass than larger particles. In the present study, the effect of particle size (nano and micro) of carbon black (CB) particle on viability, phagocytosis, cytokine induction, and DNA damage in human monocytes, THP-1 cells, was analysed. The cells were incubated with nanosize (~50 nm) and micron (~500 nm) size of CB particles in a concentration range of 50–800 µg/mL. The parameters like MTT assay, phagocytosis assay, ELISA, gene expression, and DNA analysis were studied. Exposure to nano- and micron-sized CB particles showed size- and concentration dependent decrease in cell viability and significant increase in proinflammatory cytokines IL-1β, TNF-αand IL-6 as well as chemokine IL-8 release. Gene expression study showed upregulation of monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 gene while cyclooxygenase-2 gene remained unaffected. Nano CB particles altered the phagocytic capacity of monocytes although micron CB had no significant effect. CB particles did not show any significant effect on DNA of monocytes. The investigations indicate that CB particles in nanosize exhibit higher propensity of inducing cytotoxicity, inflammation, and altered phagocytosis in human monocytes than their micron size.
The Influence of an Obesogenic Diet on Oxysterol Metabolism in C57BL/6J Mice
Authors: Wooten Joshua S. , Wu Huaizhu , Raya Joe , Perrard Xiaoyuan Dai , Gaubatz John , Hoogeveen Ron C.
Published: February 2014

Our current understanding of oxysterol metabolism during different disease states such as obesity and dyslipidemia is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the effect of diet-induced obesity on the tissue distribution of various oxysterols and the mRNA expression of key enzymes involved in oxysterol metabolism. To induce obesity, male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high fat-cholesterol diet for 24 weeks. Following diet-induced obesity, plasma levels of 4β-hydroxycholesterol, 5,6α-epoxycholesterol, 5,6β-epoxycholesterol, 7α-hydroxycholesterol, 7β-hydroxycholesterol, and 27-hydroxycholesterol were significantly (P<0.05) increased. In the liver and adipose tissue of the obese mice, 4β-hydroxycholesterol was significantly (P<0.05) increased, whereas 27-hydroxycholesterol was increased only in the adipose tissue. No significant changes in either hepatic or adipose tissue mRNA expression were observed for oxysterol synthesizing enzymes 4β-hydroxylase, 27-hydroxylase, or 7α-hydroxylase. Hepatic mRNA expression of SULT2B1b, a key enzyme involved in oxysterol detoxification, was significantly (P<0.05) elevated in the obese mice. Interestingly, the appearance of the large HDL1lipoprotein was observed with increased oxysterol synthesis during obesity. In diet-induced obese mice, dietary intake and endogenous enzymatic synthesis of oxysterols could not account for the increased oxysterol levels, suggesting that nonenzymatic cholesterol oxidation pathways may be responsible for the changes in oxysterol metabolism.
L-Fuzzy Fixed Points Theorems forL-Fuzzy Mappings viaβℱL-Admissible Pair
Authors: Rashid Maliha , Azam Akbar , Mehmood Nayyar
Published: February 2014

We define the concept ofβℱL-admissible for a pair ofL-fuzzy mappings and establish the existence of commonL-fuzzy fixed point theorem. Our result generalizes some useful results in the literature. We provide an example to support our result.
The Role of Cyclooxygenase in Multiplication and Reactivation of HSV-1 in Vestibular Ganglion Neurons
Authors: Liu Yuehong , Li Shufeng , Wang Zhengmin
Published: February 2014

Reactivation of latent herpes simplex type 1 (HSV-1) and nerve inflammation have been shown to be involved in vertigo-related vestibular pathogenesis. Treatments of such diseases have been less than perfect. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been reported to suppress reactivation of HSV-1 in trigeminal ganglions. However, whether this drug can affect reactivation of HSV-1 in vestibular ganglions is unclear. Due to the difficulties of constructingin vivoanimal models, in this study, we developed a vestibular ganglion culture system, in which vestibular neurons were latently or lytically infected with HSV-1. Indomethacin and celecoxib were selected to measure their effects on HSV-1. Trichostatin A was used to reactivate HSV-1 in latently infected neurons. Cycloxygenase-2, which is the target of NSAIDs, was induced by HSV-1 in the lytically infected cultures, with an increase of 14-fold. Although it appeared that indomethacin and celecoxib showed limited but concentration-dependent inhibition effects on viral production under our condition, indomethacin decreased reactivation rate of HSV-1 by about 20%. Though morein vitroorin vivostudies are needed to confirm the effects of the drugs, our study may provide a potential way to investigate the mechanism of HSV-related vestibular pathogenesis as well as new treatments of vertigo-related diseases.
Enhancing Spatial Memory: Anxiolytic and Antidepressant Effects ofTapinanthus dodoneifolius(DC) Danser in Mice
Authors: Harquin Simplice Foyet , David Emery Tsala , Hervé Hervé Ngatanko Abaissou
Published: February 2014

We evaluated the anxiolytic and antidepressant effects of the aqueous extract of the bark ofTapinanthus dodoneifolius(TAE) (Danser) (25, 50, and 100 mg/kg), using open field, elevated plus maze, and forced swimming tests. Effect of TAE was compared to standard drugs diazepam (2 mg/kg) and imipramine (10 mg/kg). Additionally, the same doses of TAE were evaluated on rat's memory using Y-maze task. Results showed a significant (P<0.05; 100 mg/kg) increase in the percentage of open arm entry and the time spent in the open arms in the elevated plus maze, suggesting an anxiolytic activity of the extract. In a dose-dependant manner, TAE at 25 mg/kg significantly (P<0.05) decreased the number of lines crossed and the rearing behavior in the open field test, suggesting its possible sedative activity. In the forced swimming test, the immobility time of the animal was significantly reduced (P<0.05) by TAE (100 mg/kg), compared to control, and this effect was quite comparable to that of imipramine. In the Y-maze paradigm, TAE at 50 mg/kg caused a significant increase in the spontaneous alternations but with a significant decrease in exploratory behavioral pattern. Taking these results together, TAE improved the spatial memory and showed anxiolytic, antidepressant, and sedative activities. The present results support the anxiolytic and antidepressant activities of TAE and, to our knowledge, for the first time, demonstrate its enhancing effect on memory.
Dental Caries Is Associated with Dental Fear in Childhood: Findings from a Birth Cohort Study
Authors: Torriani D.D. , Ferro R.L. , Bonow M.L.M. , Santos I.S. , Matijasevich A. , Barros A.J. , Demarco F.F. , Peres K.G.
Published: February 2014

Objective: This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of dental fear in preschool children and to estimate its association with maternal and children characteristics. Methods: The study was nested in a population-based birth cohort from Pelotas, Brazil, started in 2004. A sample of 1,129 children aged 5 years was dentally examined, and their mothers were interviewed. Dental fear was investigated using a validated instrument through the question ‘Do you think that your child is afraid of going to the dentist?'. The possible answers were (1) ‘no', (2) ‘yes, a little', (3) ‘yes' and (4) ‘yes, a lot'. The outcome was dichotomized as ‘children without dental fear' (answers 1 and 2) and ‘children with dental fear' (answers 3 and 4). Exploratory variables included demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, maternal oral health status and maternal behaviors. The main explanatory variables were caries and dental pain. Data were analyzed using multivariable Poisson regression. Results: The prevalence of dental fear was 16.8% (95% confidence interval 14.6-19.0). Multivariate analysis showed that the lower the family income at birth and the higher the severity of dental caries, the higher the prevalence of dental fear. Children who never visited the dentist and those who frequently experienced dental pain were positively associated with higher dental fear prevalence. Conclusions: Presence of dental caries and dental pain were associated with dental fear regardless of socioeconomic origin and lack of dental service use in childhood.
Perivascular Adipose Tissue, Vascular Reactivity and Hypertension
Authors: Oriowo Mabayoje A.
Published: February 2014

Most blood vessels are surrounded by a variable amount of adventitial adipose tissue, perivascular adipose tissue (PVAT), which was originally thought to provide mechanical support for the vessel. It is now known that PVAT secretes a number of bioactive substances including vascular endothelial growth factor, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), leptin, adiponectin, insulin-like growth factor, interleukin-6, plasminogen activator substance, resistin and angiotensinogen. Several studies have shown that PVAT significantly modulated vascular smooth muscle contractions induced by a variety of agonists and electrical stimulation by releasing adipocyte-derived relaxing (ADRF) and contracting factors. The identity of ADRF is not yet known. However, several vasodilators have been suggested including adiponectin, angiotensin 1-7, hydrogen sulfide and methyl palmitate. The anticontractile effect of PVAT is mediated through the activation of potassium channels since it is abrogated by inhibiting potassium channels. Hypertension is characterized by a reduction in the size and amount of PVAT and this is associated with the attenuated anticontractile effect of PVAT in hypertension. However, since a reduction in size and amount of PVAT and the attenuated anticontractile effect of PVAT were already evident in prehypertensive rats with no evidence of impaired release of ADRF, there is the possibility that the anticontractile effect of PVAT was not directly related to an altered function of the adipocytes per se. Hypertension is characterized by low-grade inflammation and infiltration of macrophages. One of the adipokines secreted by macrophages is TNF-α. It has been shown that exogenously administered TNF-α enhanced agonist-induced contraction of a variety of vascular smooth muscle preparations and reduced endothelium-dependent relaxation. Other procontractile factors released by the PVAT include angiotensin II and superoxide. It is therefore possible that the loss could be due to an increased amount of these proinflammatory and procontractile factors. More studies are definitely required to confirm this.
Dilated Perivascular Spaces in Small-Vessel Disease: A Study in CADASIL
Authors: Yao Ming , Hervé Dominique , Jouvent Eric , Duering Marco , Reyes Sonia , Godin Ophelia , Guichard Jean Pierre , Dichgans Martin , Chabriat Hugues
Published: February 2014

Background and Aim: Dilated perivascular spaces (dPVS) have previously been associated with aging and hypertension-related cerebral microangiopathy. However, their risk factors, radiological features and clinical relevance have been poorly evaluated in CADASIL (cerebral autosomal-dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy), a unique model to investigate the pathophysiology of ischemic small-vessel disease. The purpose of this study was to investigate these different aspects in a large cohort of patients with this disorder. Methods: Demographic and MRI data of 344 patients from a prospective cohort study were analyzed. The severity of dPVS was evaluated separately in the anterior temporal lobes, subinsular areas, basal ganglia and white matter, using validated semiquantitative scales. Logistic and multiple linear regression models were used to determine the risk factors associated with the severity of dPVS in these different regions and their relationships with cognition, disability and the MRI markers of the disease (white matter hyperintensities (WMH) lacunar infarcts, microbleeds and brain parenchymal fraction (BPF)). Results: The severity of dPVS was found to increase with age regardless of cerebral area (p < 0.001). In contrast with dPVS in other locations, the severity of dPVS in the temporal lobes or subinsular areas was also found strongly and specifically related to the extent of WMH (p < 0.001). Conversely, no significant association was detected with lacunar volume, number of microbleeds or BPF. A high degree of dPVS in the white matter was associated with lower cognitive performances independently of age and other MRI markers of the disease including BPF (p ≤ 0.04). Conclusions: In CADASIL, the progression of the hereditary microangiopathy with aging may promote the dilation of perivascular spaces throughout the whole brain but with variable extent according to cerebral location. In temporal lobes and subinsular areas, dPVS are common MRI features and may share a similar pathogenesis with the extension of WMH during the course of the disease. dPVS may also participate in the development of cognitive decline in this model of small-vessel disease, and their large number in white matter may alert clinicians to a higher risk of cognitive decline in CADASIL.
Giant Fibroadenomatoid Hyperplasia of the Breast: A Case Report
Authors: Zhang Hao , Wang Xin-Lu , Ren Wei-Dong , Shi Tie-Mei
Published: February 2014

Fibroadenomatoid hyperplasia of the breast (FAHB) is a rare benign breast lesion and its clinical features are similar to fibroadenoma and fibrocystic changes. FAHB has been previously termed sclerosing lobular hyperplasia, fibroadenomatosis, fibroadenomatoid change, or fibroadenomatoid mastopathy. Typically, FAHB is derived from stroma and epithelia. The pathologic characteristics of FAHB are microfocal lobulocentric proliferation of stroma accompanied by epithelial and myoepithelial components resembling similar histological changes, as found in fibroadenoma, apocrine hyperplasia, intraductal hyperplasia, and lobular hyperplasia. FAHB could be present as a localized or diffused pattern in pathology. Most cases show no well-circumscribed mass lesions and no apparent capsules; it is usually identified as an incidental finding in other benign lesions or in random sampling in cancerous breast tissues. FAHB is categorized as a benign proliferative breast disease and it has previously been reported; however, the authors believe this study may be the first case with two giant masses reported. Fiber adenoma hyperplasia is a rare cystic hyperplasia of breast pathology and its ultrasonographic manifestations are easily confused with breast cancer. Comparative MRI ultrasound analysis will help make the differential diagnosis.
Long-Term Secular Trends in the Age at Menarche in Israel: A Systematic Literature Review and Pooled Analysis
Authors: Flash-Luzzatti Shira , Weil Clara , Shalev Varda , Oron Tal , Chodick Gabriel
Published: February 2014

Background/Aims: A worldwide decline in the age at menarche (AAM) has been reported in recent decades. This trend has been also clinically observed among Israeli women and was reported in our previous study. Methods: We reviewed the literature reporting the mean AAM in Israel during the past century. Studies were excluded if participants had been investigated due to illness or any condition which could affect sexual maturation. Mean AAM was analyzed using a simple linear regression weighted for number of participants in each birth cohort and stratified to birth cohorts before and after 1970, based on the outcome of our previous study. Results: AAM varied little among women born between 1875 and 1970, but there was a clear downwards trend from 13.4 in 1970 to 12.8 two decades later. In a stratified analysis we found a significant negative association between birth year and AAM in the birth cohort after 1970 (standardized β coefficient = -0.94 per year, R2 = 0.87; p < 0.001). Conclusion: These results suggest a significant decline in mean AAM in Israeli women born in 1970 or later.
Clinical Characteristics of Patients in Japan with Ovarian Cancer Presumably Arising from Ovarian Endometrioma
Authors: Taniguchi Fuminori , Harada Tasuku , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Hayashi Kunihiko , Momoeda Mikio , Terakawa Naoki
Published: February 2014

Objective: To investigate the clinical features of patients in Japan with malignant transformation of ovarian endometrioma. Patients: Thirty-three patients diagnosed with ovarian cancer presumably arising from endometrioma were recruited retrospectively. These patients had been followed for at least 2 years after the ovarian endometrioma diagnosis, then continued to be followed after they had been found to have malignant transformation. Results: The average age of the patients was 47.7 ± 9.3 years; 75.7% were premenopausal at the time of diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Among the 33 patients, ovarian cancer developed in the ipsilateral ovary of 6 patients with endometrioma after cystectomy. Twenty-eight patients were diagnosed with stage I ovarian cancer, and major histotypes were clear cell in 23 cases and endometrioid in 8. Before surgery for cancer, mural nodules within the endometriomas were detected in 32 patients, and 1 patient had a small 3-mm nodule. In 30 patients, the diameter of the tumor doubled in size 6 months prior to the diagnosis of malignant transformation. The diameter of the endometrioma and the preoperative CA125 value did not significantly correlate. Conclusions: To detect malignant transformation of ovarian endometrioma early and precisely, the clinician should determine the existence of a mural nodule and assess the rapid growth of the endometrioma.
Angiographic Validation of the American College of Cardiology Foundation–The Society of Thoracic Surgeons Collaboration on the Comparative Effectiveness of Revascularization Strategies Study
Authors: Chakrabarti Anjan K. , Grau-Sepulveda Maria V. , O’Brien Sean , Abueg Cassandra , Ponirakis Angelo , Delong Elizabeth , Peterson Eric , Klein Lloyd W. , Garratt Kirk N. , Weintraub William S. , Gibson C. Michael
Published: February 2014

Background—

The goal of this study was to compare angiographic interpretation of coronary arteriograms by sites in community practice versus those made by a centralized angiographic core laboratory.

Methods and Results—

The study population consisted of 2013 American College of Cardiology–National Cardiovascular Data Registry (ACC–NCDR) records with 2- and 3- vessel coronary disease from 54 sites in 2004 to 2007. The primary analysis compared Registry (NCDR)-defined 2- and 3-vessel disease versus those from an angiographic core laboratory analysis. Vessel-level kappa coefficients suggested moderate agreement between NCDR and core laboratory analysis, ranging from kappa=0.39 (95% confidence intervals, 0.32–0.45) for the left anterior descending artery to kappa=0.59 (95% confidence intervals, 0.55–0.64) for the right coronary artery. Overall, 6.3% (n=127 out of 2013) of those patients identified with multivessel disease at NCDR sites had had 0- or 1-vessel disease by core laboratory reading. There was no directional bias with regard to overcall, that is, 12.3% of cases read as 3-vessel disease by the sites were read as <3-vessel disease by the core laboratory, and 13.9% of core laboratory 3-vessel cases were read as <3-vessel by the sites. For a subset of patients with left main coronary disease, registry overcall was not linked to increased rates of mortality or myocardial infarction.

Conclusions—

There was only modest agreement between angiographic readings in clinical practice and those from an independent core laboratory. Further study will be needed because the implications for patient management are uncertain.
Improved Historical Temperature and Precipitation Time Series for U.S. Climate Divisions
Authors: Vose Russell S. , Applequist Scott , Squires Mike , Durre Imke , Menne Matthew J. , Williams Claude N. , Fenimore Chris , Gleason Karin , Arndt Derek
Published: February 2014

This paper describes an improved edition of the climate division dataset for the conterminous United States (i.e., version 2). The first improvement is to the input data, which now include additional station networks, quality assurance reviews, and temperature bias adjustments. The second improvement is to the suite of climatic elements, which now includes both maximum and minimum temperatures. The third improvement is to the computational approach, which now employs climatologically aided interpolation to address topographic and network variability. Version 2 exhibits substantial differences from version 1 over the period 1895–2012. For example, divisional averages in version 2 tend to be cooler and wetter, particularly in mountainous areas of the western United States. Division-level trends in temperature and precipitation display greater spatial consistency in version 2. National-scale temperature trends in version 2 are comparable to those in the U.S. Historical Climatology Network whereas version 1 exhibits less warming as a result of historical changes in observing practices. Divisional errors in version 2 are likely less than 0.5°C for temperature and 20 mm for precipitation at the start of the record, falling rapidly thereafter. Overall, these results indicate that version 2 can supersede version 1 in both operational climate monitoring and applied climatic research.
Large-Eddy Simulation of Stratified Turbulence. Part I: A Vortex-Based Subgrid-Scale Model
Authors: Chung Daniel , Matheou Georgios
Published: February 2014

The stretched-vortex subgrid-scale (SGS) model is extended to enable large-eddy simulation of buoyancy-stratified turbulence. Both stable and unstable stratifications are considered. The extended model retains the anisotropic form of the original stretched-vortex model, but the SGS kinetic energy and the characteristic SGS eddy size are modified by buoyancy subject to two constraints: first, the SGS kinetic energy dynamics is determined by stationary and homogeneous conditions, and second, the SGS eddy size obeys a scaling analogous to the Monin–Obukhov similarity theory. The SGS model construction, comprising an ensemble of subgrid stretched-vortical structures, naturally limits vertical mixing but allows horizontal mixing provided the alignment of the SGS vortex ensemble is favorable, even at high nominal gradient Richardson numbers. In very stable stratification, the model recovers the z-less limit, in which a vortex-based Obukhov length controls the SGS dynamics, while in very unstable stratification, the model recovers the free-convection limit, in which a vortex-based Deardorff velocity controls the SGS dynamics. The efficacy of the present SGS model is demonstrated by simulating the canonical stationary and homogeneous, stratified sheared turbulence at high Reynolds numbers and moderately high Richardson numbers. In the postprocessing, the SGS dynamics of the stretched-vortex model is further interrogated to yield predictions of buoyancy-adjusted one-dimensional SGS spectra and SGS root-mean-square velocity-derivative fluctuations.
Fast Multidimensional Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition Using a Data Compression Technique
Authors: Feng Jiaxin , Wu Zhaohua , Liu Guosheng
Published: February 2014

The process of obtaining key information on climate variability and change from large climate datasets often involves large computational costs and removal of noise from the data. In this study, the authors accelerate the computation of a newly developed, multidimensional temporal–spatial analysis method, namely multidimensional ensemble empirical mode decomposition (MEEMD), for climate studies. The original MEEMD uses ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD) to decompose the time series at each grid point and then pieces together the temporal–spatial evolution of climate variability and change on naturally separated time scales, which is computationally expensive.

To accelerate the algorithm, the original MEEMD is modified by 1) using principal component analysis (PCA) to transform the original temporal–spatial multidimensional climate data into principal components (PCs) and corresponding empirical orthogonal functions (EOFs); 2) retaining only a small fraction of PCs and EOFs that contain spatially and temporally coherent structures; 3) decomposing PCs into oscillatory components on naturally separated time scales; and 4) obtaining the original MEEMD components on naturally separated time scales by summing the contributions of the similar time scales from different pairs of EOFs and PCs. The study analyzes extended reconstructed sea surface temperature (ERSST) to validate the accelerated (fast) MEEMD. It is demonstrated that, for ERSST climate data, the fast MEEMD can 1) compress data with a compression rate of one to two orders and 2) increase the speed of the original MEEMD algorithm by one to two orders.
On the Seasonal Signal of the Filchner Overflow, Weddell Sea, Antarctica
Authors: Darelius E. , Strand K. O. , Østerhus S. , Gammeslrød T. , Årthun M. , Fer I.
Published: February 2014

The cold ice shelf water (ISW) that formed below the Filchner–Ronne Ice Shelf in the southwestern Weddell Sea, Antarctica, escapes the ice shelf cavity through the Filchner Depression and spills over its sill at a rate of 1.6 Sverdrups (Sv; 1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1), thus contributing significantly to the production of Weddell Sea Bottom Water. Here, the authors examine all available observational data from the region—including five year-long time series of mooring data from the Filchner sill—to examine the seasonal variability of the outflow. The temperature of the ISW outflow is found to vary seasonally by 0.07°C with a maximum in April. The accompanying signal in salinity causes a seasonal signal in density of 0.03–0.04 kg m−3, potentially changing the penetration depth of the ISW plume by more than 500 m. Contrary to recent modeling, the observations show no seasonal variability in outflow velocity. The seasonality observed at the sill is, at least partly, due to the admixture of high-salinity shelf water from the Berkner Bank. Observations and numerical modeling suggest, however, seasonal signals in the circulation upstream (i.e., in the ice shelf cavity and in the Filchner Depression) that—although processes and linkages are unclear—are likely to contribute to the seasonal signal observed at the sill. In the plume region downstream of the sill, the source variability is apparent only within the very densest portions of the ISW plume. In the more diluted part of the plume, the source variability is overcome by the seasonality in the properties of the water entrained at the shelf break. This will have implications for the properties of the generated bottom waters.
Comparison of Two Filter-Based Reflectance Methods to Measure the Light Absorption by Atmospheric Aerosols
Authors: Aryal Rudra , Terman Paul , Voss Kenneth J.
Published: February 2014

Two reflectance techniques, based on Kubelka–Munk (K-M) theory and on the Beer–Lambert (B-L) law, were used to measure the absorption coefficient of aerosol particles collected on a filter. The two methods agreed, with the B-L technique being higher than the K-M method by a factor of 1.10, but with a correlation, r2, between the two methods of 0.99. The aerosol absorption Ångström exponents (AAE) between the two methods also agreed within 0.4 and were in the range of measurements reported in the literature with other techniques. The precision of the two methods depends on the volume of air sampled, but a typical sampling scheme (100 L min−1, 10 cm2 sampling area, full day of sampling) results in a precision in the measurement of the aerosol light absorption coefficient of 0.05 Mm−1.
Assessment of Iron Absorption from Ferric Trimaltol
Authors: Reffitt David M , Burden Trevor J , Seed Paul T , Wood John , Thompson Richard P H , Powell Jonathan J
Published: February 2014

Therapeutic iron compounds have limited absorption and often have side-effects, which limits patient compliance. Iron trimaltol is a novel, stable complex, formed between ferric iron (Fe3+) and maltol (3-hydroxy-2-methyl-4-pyrone), and is effective in the treatment of iron deficiency anaemia with few side-effects. However, the kinetics of iron absorption from ferric trimaltol and the reliability of normal colorimetric analysis in detecting iron absorbed from this complex have not been established. We measured increases in serum iron levels in 12 volunteers following oral challenge with four different pharmaceutical formulations of ferric trimaltol in a double-blind, cross-over, randomized study. The conventional colorimetric method for detecting serum iron was compared with thermal analyses after trichloroacetic acid (TCA) treatment of serum. Measurements of serum iron levels by TCA treatment and thermal analysis closely agreed with measurements by colorimetry. For all formulations, serum iron levels peaked at 90 min with a plateau of at least 5h [mean (standard deviation) peak absorption 8·3% (6·3%) of ingested dose, n = 48]. Absorption of iron, based on peak serum values or area under the serum curve, was not different for the four formulations ( n = 12 each) and correlated with the individual's iron status, as assessed by serum ferritin values ( r = −0·6; P < 0·001). Normal colorimetry is suitable for analysis of serum iron levels following ingestion of ferric trimaltol. There is rapid and sustained absorption of iron from ferric trimaltol and, as with ferrous iron, uptake appears to be controlled through normal mechanisms of iron acquisition that depend upon body iron stores.
Cost-Effective Strategy for the Serological Investigation of Coeliac Disease
Authors: Bowron A , Moorghen M , Morgan J E , Osborne J R , Stansbie D , Stone J E
Published: February 2014

Increased numbers of requests for serological investigation of coeliac disease, and a local trend to request both anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA) and anti-endomysium antibodies (AEA) simultaneously, resulted in cost pressures that prompted a review of our practice. Serology results from all patients (771 children, 511 adults) investigated for coeliac disease over a 3-year period were compared with small intestine histology where available. IgG AGA and IgA AGA were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (in-house), IgA AEA by immunofluorescence (send-away contract). Overall diagnostic performance was as follows: AGA sensitivity 84%, specificity 88%, positive predictive value (PPV) 24%, negative predictive value (NPV) 99%; AEA sensitivity 88%, specificity 97%, PPV 65%, NPV 99%.

Results showed AGA, with its high NPV, to be a suitable first-line test to exclude coeliac disease. The high specificity of AEA makes it a suitable confirmatory test when AGA is positive. Introduction of this step-wise approach to coeliac disease investigation resulted in cost savings of at least £5000 per year without detriment to the clinical service.
Antioxidant Vitamin Concentrations and LDL Oxidation in Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Warwick G L , Waller H , Ferns G A A
Published: February 2014

The increased risk of atherosclerosis in nephrotic syndrome is attributable in part to the associated hyperlipidaemia. The importance of oxidation of LDL in the atherogenic process has been recognized over the last 15 years. However, there are few data on the balance of antioxidant defences and lipoprotein oxidation in nephrotic syndrome. Plasma antioxidant vitamin concentrations and indices of LDL oxidation (LDL lipid hydroperoxide content and the susceptibility of LDL to oxidation) were measured in two groups of patients; group I comprised 29 nephrotic patients and group II comprised 25 patients with haematuria. Plasma ascorbate concentration was significantly lower in group I (the nephrotic group) compared with group II (median 13·3 versus 22·2 μmol/L; P < 0·001). Vitamin E concentrations were higher in group I but were not significantly different if corrected for total plasma cholesterol (6·12 versus 5·88 μmol/mmol; P = 0·33). However, these changes resulted in a low ascorbate:vitamin E ratio in group I (0·19 versus 0·87; P < 0·0001). Despite these changes in important antioxidant vitamin concentrations, we were unable to demonstrate any increased susceptibility to LDL oxidation in vitro or any difference in LDL lipid hydroperoxide content. These data suggest that there may be a relative defect of oxidant/antioxidant balance in nephrotic syndrome which could predispose to increased oxidative stress. However, measures of LDL oxidation were not significantly different between the two groups. LDL was protected from oxidation despite the severe hyperlipidaemia and the low circulating vitamin C concentrations.