bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A simplified economic approach to thyroid FNA cytology and surgical intervention in thyroid nodules
Authors: Poller David Nigel , Kandaswamy Prashanth
Published: March 2013

Objective

Few studies have modelled the economics of thyroid FNA.

Methods

A simple spreadsheet economic model for delivery of thyroid fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology is described using the UK Royal College of Pathologists’ Classification for thyroid FNA which is based on The Bethesda System for Reporting Thyroid Cytopathology.

Results

We show an estimated 27.8% cost treatment reduction per patient if low rates of non-diagnostic for cytological diagnosis (Thy 1) and neoplasm possible atypia/non-diagnostic (Thy 3a) are achieved, which require rapid onsite FNA adequacy assessment of aspiration samples. If we assume that the number of thyroid FNAs performed in the UK annually is around 500 per million, and the UK population is 62 million, this could save the UK National Health Service significant sums, as the additional cost per patient treated in this model varies from £781 for a scenario with ultrasound guided FNA and inclinic cell adequacy assessment to £998 where aspirates are taken in conventional fashion without any inclinic adequacy assessment.

Conclusions

This model makes a strong economic case for the introduction of rapid onsite assessment of thyroid FNA across cancer networks, to improve the diagnostic efficacy of thyroid FNA.
Management of spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas: interventional techniques and results
Authors: Ramanathan Dinesh , Levitt Michael R , Sekhar Laligam N , Kim Louis J , Hallam Danial K , Ghodke Basavaraj V
Published: March 2013

Background

Spinal epidural arteriovenous fistulas (SEDAVF) are rare and poorly understood clinical entities.

Materials and methods

We report a series of five (three men, two women) consecutive cases treated at our center to analyze their characteristic and treatment strategies in their management. We report a successful technique of percutaneous embolization of fistulas in a patient with failed previous attempts.

Results

All five patients were symptomatic; three patients presented with a history of back pain, which progressed to myelopathic symptoms, one patient had symptoms of persistent back pain, and one patient had intermittent numbness of the left arm and thigh. Of the three patients who had myelopathic symptoms, two were successfully treated with transarterial embolizations with Onyx copolymer. The third patient who had a prominent epidural venous pouch with numerous arterial feeders was embolized percutaneously with a flat detector CT guided navigation (XperCT) and real time fluoroscopic monitoring of the injected n-butyl cyanoacrylate glue, after previous unsuccessful attempts with surgery and arterial embolizations. All three myelopathic treated patients had complete angiographic remission of the fistulas and symptoms on follow-up (mean 7.2 months).

Conclusions

The diagnosis and treatment of SEDAVF can be challenging due to their rarity and intricate pathomechanics. Patients with severe pain or progression of symptoms or myelopathic symptoms need to be treated at the earliest opportunity, while asymptomatic patients can be closely monitored. Percutaneous embolization is an effective strategy to embolize SEDAVF associated venous pouch.
Hydrodynamic comparison of the Penumbra system and commonly available syringes in forced-suction thrombectomy
Authors: Simon Scott Douglas , Grey Casey Paul
Published: March 2013

Background

The Penumbra system uses a coaxial separator and continuous extracorporeal suction to remove a clot from a cerebral artery. Forced-suction thrombectomy (FST) involves aspirating clots through the same reperfusion catheter using only a syringe, decreasing the procedure time and supplies needed.

Objective

To evaluate multiple combinations of catheters and syringes to determine the optimal pairing for use in FST.

Methods

Tests were performed using both the Penumbra system and syringes to aspirate water through Penumbra 0.041 inch (041), 4Max, 0.054 inch (054) and 5Max reperfusion catheters and a shuttle sheath. Dynamic pressure and flow at the catheter tip were calculated from the fill times for each system. Static pressure and force for each aspiration source were determined with a vacuum gauge.

Results

All syringes provided significantly higher dynamic pressure at the catheter tip than the Penumbra system (p<0.001). Increasing syringe volume significantly increased static pressure (p<0.001). Both flow and aspiration force significantly increased with catheter size (p<0.001). Cases are presented to demonstrate the clinical value of the laboratory principles.

Conclusions

Maximizing static and dynamic pressure when performing FST is achieved by aspirating with a syringe possessing both the largest volume and the largest inlet diameter available. Maximizing aspiration force and flow rate is achieved by using the largest catheter possible.
Earth pressure on the support system in jointed rock mass
Authors: Son Moorak
Published: March 2013

This paper investigates the magnitude and distribution of earth pressure on a support system in open cuts in jointed rock mass for the safer and more economical design and construction of earth-retaining structures installed in a rock stratum. The paper first investigates the limitations of previous research on earth pressure and then addresses them to provide a numerical parametric study based on the discrete element method, which can consider the joint characteristics of a rock stratum. The controlled parameters include rock type, joint conditions (shear strength and angle of joints), and wall type. The magnitude and distribution of earth pressure are investigated based on interactions between the ground and the retaining structure. In addition, earth pressure in the rock stratum is compared with Peck's earth pressure for soil ground. The results indicate that the magnitude and distribution of earth pressure in jointed rock mass are strongly influenced by rock type, joint conditions, and wall type, and that this pressure can be very different from that in soil ground. Furthermore, the results of numerical tests are compared with field measurements, and the comparison shows a reasonable agreement. This paper provides useful data for the assessment of earth pressure in designing support systems for jointed rock mass.
REPARAMETRIZATION-INVARIANT EFFECTIVE ACTION IN FIELD–ANTIFIELD FORMALISM
Authors: BATALIN IGOR A. , BERING KLAUS
Published: March 2013

We introduce classical and quantum antifields in the reparametrization-invariant effective action and derive a deformed classical master equation.
ASYMPTOTIC CRAMÉR TYPE DECOMPOSITION FOR WIENER AND WIGNER INTEGRALS
Authors: BOURGUIN SOLESNE , BRETON JEAN-CHRISTOPHE
Published: March 2013

We investigate generalizations of the Cramér theorem. This theorem asserts that a Gaussian random variable can be decomposed into the sum of independent random variables if and only if they are Gaussian. We prove asymptotic counterparts of such decomposition results for multiple Wiener integrals and prove that similar results are true for the (asymptotic) decomposition of the semicircular distribution into free multiple Wigner integrals.
ASYMPTOTIC SAFETY, HYPERGEOMETRIC FUNCTIONS, AND THE HIGGS MASS IN SPECTRAL ACTION MODELS
Authors: ESTRADA CHRISTOPHER , MARCOLLI MATILDE
Published: March 2013

We study the renormalization group flow for the Higgs self-coupling in the presence of gravitational correction terms. We show that the resulting equation is equivalent to a singular linear ODE, which has explicit solutions in terms of hypergeometric functions. We discuss the implications of this model with gravitational corrections on the Higgs mass estimates in particle physics models based on the spectral action functional.
Calcium-sensing receptor-dependent activation of CREB phosphorylation in HEK293 cells and human parathyroid cells
Authors: Avlani Vimesh A. , Ma Wenting , Mun Hee-Chang , Leach Katie , Delbridge Leigh , Christopoulos Arthur , Conigrave Arthur D.
Published: March 2013

In addition to its acute effects on hormone secretion, epithelial transport, and shape change, the calcium-sensing receptor (CaSR) modulates the expression of genes that control cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation as well as the synthesis of peptide hormones and enzymes. In the present study, we investigated the impacts of a CaSR agonist and several CaSR modulators on phosphorylation of transcription factor CREB residue Ser133 in CaSR-expressing HEK293 (HEK-CaSR) cells and human adenomatous parathyroid cells. Elevated Ca2+o concentration had no effect on CREB phosphorylation (p-CREB) in control HEK293 cells but stimulated p-CREB in both HEK-CaSR cells and human parathyroid cells. In addition, p-CREB was stimulated by the positive modulator cinacalcet and inhibited by the negative modulator NPS 2143 in both CaSR-expressing cell types. Two positive modulators that bind in the receptor's Venus Fly Trap domain, l-phenylalanine and S-methylglutathione, had no effect on p-CREB in HEK-CaSR cells, demonstrating the existence of pronounced signaling bias. Analysis of the signaling pathways using specific inhibitors demonstrated that phosphoinositide-specific phospholipase C and conventional protein kinase C isoforms make major contributions to Ca2+o-induced p-CREB in both cell-types, suggesting key roles for Gq/11. In addition, in parathyroid cells but not HEK-CaSR cells, activation of p-CREB was dependent on Gi/o, demonstrating the existence of cell type-specific signaling.
Rapid cortisol signaling in response to acute stress involves changes in plasma membrane order in rainbow trout liver
Authors: Dindia Laura , Faught Erin , Leonenko Zoya , Thomas Raymond , Vijayan Mathilakath M.
Published: March 2013

The activation of genomic signaling in response to stressor-mediated cortisol elevation has been studied extensively in teleosts. However, very little is known about the rapid signaling events elicited by this steroid. We tested the hypothesis that cortisol modulates key stress-related signaling pathways in response to an acute stressor in fish liver. To this end, we investigated the effect of an acute stressor on biophysical properties of plasma membrane and on stressor-related protein phosphorylation in rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss) liver. A role for cortisol in modulating the acute cellular stress response was ascertained by blocking the stressor-induced elevation of this steroid by metyrapone. The acute stressor exposure increased plasma cortisol levels and liver membrane fluidity (measured by anisotropy of 1,6-diphenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene), but these responses were abolished by metyrapone. Atomic force microscopy further confirmed biophysical alterations in liver plasma membrane in response to stress, including changes in membrane domain topography. The changes in membrane order did not correspond to any changes in membrane fatty acid components after stress, suggesting that changes in membrane structure may be associated with cortisol incorporation into the lipid bilayer. Plasma cortisol elevation poststress correlated positively with activation of intracellular stress signaling pathways, including increased phosphorylation of extracellular signal-related kinases as well as several putative PKA and PKC but not Akt substrate proteins. Together, our results indicate that stressor-induced elevation of plasma cortisol level is associated with alterations in plasma membrane fluidity and rapid activation of stress-related signaling pathways in trout liver.
High-fat diet-induced hyperinsulinemia and tissue-specific insulin resistance inCry-deficient mice
Authors: Barclay Johanna L. , Shostak Anton , Leliavski Alexei , Tsang Anthony H. , Jöhren Olaf , Müller-Fielitz Helge , Landgraf Dominic , Naujokat Nadine , van der Horst Gijsbertus T. J. , Oster Henrik
Published: March 2013

Perturbation of circadian rhythmicity in mammals, either by environmental influences such as shiftwork or by genetic manipulation, has been associated with metabolic disturbance and the development of obesity and diabetes. Circadian clocks are based on transcriptional/translational feedback loops, comprising positive and negative components. Whereas the metabolic effects of deletion of the positive arm of the clock gene machinery, as in Clock- or Bmal1-deficient mice, have been well characterized, inactivation of Period genes ( Per1–3) as components of the negative arm have more complex, sometimes contradictory effects on energy homeostasis. The CRYPTOCHROMEs are critical interaction partners of PERs, and simultaneous deletion of Cry1 and - 2 results in behavioral and molecular circadian arrhythmicity. We show that, when challenged with a high-fat diet, Cry1/2−/−mice rapidly gain weight and surpass that of wild-type mice, despite displaying hypophagia. Transcript analysis of white adipose tissue reveals upregulated expression of lipogenic genes, many of which are insulin targets. High-fat diet-induced hyperinsulinemia, as a result of potentiated insulin secretion, coupled with selective insulin sensitivity in adipose tissue of Cry1/2−/−mice, correlates with increased lipid uptake. Collectively, these data indicate that Cry deficiency results in an increased vulnerability to high-fat diet-induced obesity that might be mediated by increased insulin secretion and lipid storage in adipose tissues.
Effects of prolonged exendin-4 administration on hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity and water balance
Authors: Gil-Lozano Manuel , Romaní-Pérez Marina , Outeiriño-Iglesias Verónica , Vigo Eva , Brubaker Patricia L. , González-Matías Lucas C. , Mallo Federico
Published: March 2013

Exendin-4 (Ex-4) is a natural agonist of the glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor, currently being used as a treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus due to its insulinotropic properties. Previous studies have revealed that acute administration of both GLP-1 and, in particular, Ex-4 potently stimulates hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity. In this work, the effects of prolonged Ex-4 exposure on HPA function were explored. To this end, Sprague-Dawley rats were subjected to a daily regimen of two Ex-4 injections (5 μg/kg sc) for a minimum of 7 days. We found that subchronic Ex-4 administration produced a number of effects that resemble chronic stress situations, including hyperactivation of the HPA axis during the trough hours, disruption of glucocorticoid circadian secretion, hypertrophy of the adrenal gland, decreased adrenal gland sensitivity, impaired pituitary-adrenal stress responses, and reductions in both food intake and body weight. In addition, a threefold increase in diuresis was observed followed by a 1.5-fold increase in water intake; these latter effects were abolished by adrenalectomy. Together, these findings indicate that Ex-4 induces a profound dysregulation of HPA axis activity that may also affect renal function.
Postnatal development of the endocrine pancreas in mice lacking functional GABABreceptors
Authors: Crivello Martín , Bonaventura María Marta , Chamson-Reig Astrid , Arany Edith , Bettler Bernhard , Libertun Carlos , Lux-Lantos Victoria
Published: March 2013

Adult mice lacking functional GABABreceptors (GABAB1KO) have glucose metabolism alterations. Since GABABreceptors (GABABRs) are expressed in progenitor cells, we evaluated islet development in GABAB1KO mice. Postnatal day 4 (PND4) and adult, male and female, GABAB1KO, and wild-type littermates (WT) were weighed and euthanized, and serum insulin and glucagon was measured. Pancreatic glucagon and insulin content were assessed, and pancreas insulin, glucagon, PCNA, and GAD65/67 were determined by immunohistochemistry. RNA from PND4 pancreata and adult isolated islets was obtained, and Ins1, Ins2, Gcg, Sst, Ppy, Nes, Pdx1, and Gad1 transcription levels were determined by quantitative PCR. The main results were as follows: 1) insulin content was increased in PND4 GABAB1KO females and in both sexes in adult GABAB1KOs; 2) GABAB1KO females had more clusters (<500 μm2) and less islets than WT females; 3) cluster proliferation was decreased at PND4 and increased in adult GABAB1KO mice; 4) increased β-area at the expense of the α-cell area was present in GABAB1KO islets; 5) Ins2, Sst, and Ppy transcription were decreased in PND4 GABAB1KO pancreata, adult GABAB1KO female islets showed increased Ins1, Ins2, and Sst expression, Pdx1 was increased in male and female GABAB1KO islets; and 6) GAD65/67 was increased in adult GABAB1KO pancreata. We demonstrate that several islet parameters are altered in GABAB1KO mice, further pinpointing the importance of GABABRs in islet physiology. Some changes persist from neonatal ages to adulthood (e.g., insulin content in GABAB1KO females), whereas other features are differentially regulated according to age (e.g., Ins2 was reduced in PND4, whereas it was upregulated in adult GABAB1KO females).
Adiponectin attenuates angiotensin II-induced oxidative stress in renal tubular cells through AMPK and cAMP-Epac signal transduction pathways
Authors: Fang Fei , Liu George C. , Kim Crystal , Yassa Rana , Zhou Joyce , Scholey James W.
Published: March 2013

Obesity is a risk factor for chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression. Circulating levels of adiponectin, an adipokine, decrease with obesity and play a protective role in the cardiovascular system. We hypothesized that adiponectin might also protect the kidney. Because activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) is a contributor to CKD progression, we tested our hypothesis by studying the interactions between adiponectin and angiotensin II (ANG II) in renal tubular cells. Primary human renal proximal tubule cells expressed both adiponectin receptor 1 and 2 (adipoR1 and R2). ANG II-induced NADPH oxidase activation and oxidative stress were attenuated by adiponectin and dependent on adipoR1. Activation of AMPK with 5-aminoimidazole-4-carboxamide-1-β-d-ribofuranoside (AICAR) mimicked, while inhibition of AMPK with compound C abrogated, the effect of adiponectin on ANG II-induced activation of NADPH oxidase. Similarly, the effect of adiponectin was recapitulated by the stable cAMP analogs 4-chlorophenylthio (pCPT)-cAMP and dibutyryl (db)-cAMP and blocked by the adenylate cyclase inhibitor SQ22536. Adiponectin did not activate PKA in renal tubular cells, and the specific PKA inhibitor myristoylated PKI (14–22) amide failed to block the inhibitory effect of adiponectin on ANG II-induced NADPH oxidase activation. In contrast, the specific Epac activator 8-(4-chlorophenylthio)-2′-O-methyl (8-CPT-2-O-Me)-cAMP blocked ANG II-induced activation of NADPH oxidase, an effect that was reversed by coincubation with the AMPK inhibitor compound C. Finally, adiponectin attenuated ANG II-induced NF-κB activation and fibronectin protein expression. These in vitro findings support the hypothesis that adiponectin may attenuate the deleterious effects of ANG II in the kidney and play a protective role in CKD.
Finite 1-Regular Cayley Graphs of Valency 5
Authors: Li Jing Jian , Lou Ben Gong , Zhang Xiao Jun
Published: March 2013

Let and . We say is -regular Cayley graph if acts regularly on its arcs. is said to be core-free if is core-free in some . In this paper, we prove that if an -regular Cayley graph of valency is not normal or binormal, then it is the normal cover of one of two core-free ones up to isomorphism. In particular, there are no core-free -regular Cayley graphs of valency .
Sharp Efficiency for Vector Equilibrium Problems on Banach Spaces
Authors: Li Si-Huan , Wang Qiang , Xu Shu , Wang Jun-Xiang
Published: March 2013

The concept of sharp efficient solution for vector equilibrium problems on Banach spaces is proposed. Moreover, the Fermat rules for local efficient solutions of vector equilibrium problems are extended to the sharp efficient solutions by means of the Clarke generalized differentiation and the normal cone. As applications, some necessary optimality conditions and sufficient optimality conditions for local sharp efficient solutions of a vector optimization problem with an abstract constraint and a vector variational inequality are obtained, respectively.
Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery: A Systematic Review
Authors: Lucà Fabiana , van Garsse Leen , Rao Carmelo Massimiliano , Parise Orlando , La Meir Mark , Puntrello Calogero , Rubino Gaspare , Carella Rocco , Lorusso Roberto , Gensini Gian Franco , Maessen Jos G. , Gelsomino Sandro
Published: March 2013

In the recent years minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) has become a well-established and increasingly used option for managing patients with a mitral valve pathology. Nonetheless, whether the purported benefits of MIMVS translate into clinically important outcomes remains controversial. Therefore, in this paper we provide an overview of MIMVS and discuss results, morbidity, mortality, and quality of life following mitral minimally invasive procedures. MIMVS has been proven to be a feasible alternative to the conventional full sternotomy approach with low perioperative morbidity and short-term mortality. Reported benefits of MIMVS include also decreased postoperative pain, improved postoperative respiratory function, reduced surgical trauma, and greater patient satisfaction. Finally, compared to standard surgery, MIMVS demonstrated comparable efficacy across a range of long-term efficacy measures such as freedom from reoperation and long-term survival.
Mathematical Model and Stability Analysis of Inverter-Based Distributed Generator
Authors: Khadem Abbasi Alireza , Mustafa Mohd Wazir
Published: March 2013

This paper presents a mathematical (small-signal) model of an electronically interfaced distributed generator (DG) by considering the effect of voltage and frequency variations of the prime source. Dynamic equations are found by linearization about an operating point. In this study, the dynamic of DC part of the interface is included in the model. The stability analysis shows with proper selection of system parameters; the system is stable during steady-state and dynamic situations, and oscillatory modes are well damped. The proposed model is useful to study stability analysis of a standalone DG or a Microgrid.
How Does Moxibustion Possibly Work?
Authors: Chiu Jen-Hwey
Published: March 2013

“Acupmoxa” is a hybrid word of “acupuncture” and “moxibustion” that more closely resembles the Chinese ideograph for this treatment. People in Western countries are more familiar with acupuncture, while moxibustion is less popular, partially due to the paucity of scientific studies. Although the evidence-based efficacy of moxibustion needs to be further clarified, the mechanisms by which moxibustion may work include temperature-related and nontemperature-related ones. Local somatothermal stimulation (LSTS), one type of moxibustion, is achieved by application of a heat source to and above the acupoint. Such mild heat stimulation of the acupoint induces little skin damage, in contrast to the burning effect of moxibustion, but does provoke mild oxidative stress in the viscera. Thus, preconditioned LSTS at the peripheral acupoints LR 14 and PC 6 of animals is able to induce visceral HSP70 expression and to protect the liver and the heart against ischemia-reperfusion injury. Nontemperature-related mechanisms include smoke, herbs, and biophysical (far infrared) stimulation. We conclude that LSTS, a remote preconditioning method, has potential clinical usefulness. However, evidence-based efficacy and safety studies involving large-scaled clinical trials are needed in order that this approach will pass muster with Western scientists.
Topological Order: From Long-Range Entangled Quantum Matter to a Unified Origin of Light and Electrons
Authors: Wen Xiao-Gang
Published: March 2013

We review the progress in the last 20–30 years, during which we discovered that there are many new phases of matter that are beyond the traditional Landau symmetry breaking theory. We discuss new “topological” phenomena, such as topological degeneracy that reveals the existence of those new phases—topologically ordered phases. Just like zero viscosity defines the superfluid order, the new “topological” phenomena define the topological order at macroscopic level. More recently, we found that at the microscopical level, topological order is due to long-range quantum entanglements. Long-range quantum entanglements lead to many amazing emergent phenomena, such as fractional charges and fractional statistics. Long-range quantum entanglements can even provide a unified origin of light and electrons; light is a fluctuation of long-range entanglements, and electrons are defects in long-range entanglements.
A Mixed Line Search Smoothing Quasi-Newton Method for Solving Linear Second-Order Cone Programming Problem
Authors: Gui Zhuqing , Hu Chunyan , Zhu Zhibin
Published: March 2013

Firstly, we give the Karush-Kuhn-Tucker (KKT) optimality
condition of primal problem and introduce Jordan algebra simply. On the basis of Jordan algebra, we extend smoothing Fischer-Burmeister (F-B) function to Jordan algebra and make the complementarity condition smoothing. So the first-order optimization condition can be reformed to a nonlinear system. Secondly, we use the mixed line search quasi-Newton method to solve this nonlinear system. Finally, we prove the globally and locally superlinear convergence of the algorithm.
Efficiency in the Worst Production Situation Using Data Envelopment Analysis
Authors: Hossain Md. Kamrul , Kamil Anton Abdulbasah , Mustafa Adli , Baten Md. Azizul
Published: March 2013

Data envelopment analysis (DEA) measures relative efficiency among the decision making units (DMU) without considering noise in data. The least efficient DMU indicates that it is in the worst situation. In this paper, we measure efficiency of individual DMU whenever it losses the maximum output, and the efficiency of other DMUs is measured in the observed situation. This efficiency is the minimum efficiency of a DMU. The concept of stochastic data envelopment analysis (SDEA) is a DEA method which considers the noise in data which is proposed in this study. Using bounded Pareto distribution, we estimate the DEA efficiency from efficiency interval. Small value of shape parameter can estimate the efficiency more accurately using the Pareto distribution. Rank correlations were estimated between observed efficiencies and minimum efficiency as well as between observed and estimated efficiency. The correlations are indicating the effectiveness of this SDEA model.
Propagation of Cross-Section Uncertainties in Criticality Calculations in the Framework of UAM-Phase I Using MCNPX-2.7e and SCALE-6.1
Authors: Díez C. J. , Herrero J. J. , Cabellos O. , Martínez J. S.
Published: March 2013

In the framework of the OECD/NEA project on Benchmark for Uncertainty Analysis in Modeling (UAM) for Design, Operation, and Safety Analysis of LWRs, several approaches and codes are being used to deal with the exercises proposed in Phase I, “Specifications and Support Data for Neutronics Cases.” At UPM, our research group treats these exercises with sensitivity calculations and the “sandwich formula” to propagate cross-section uncertainties. Two different codes are employed to calculate the sensitivity coefficients ofkeffto cross sections in criticality calculations: MCNPX-2.7e and SCALE-6.1. The former uses the Differential Operator Technique and the latter uses the Adjoint-Weighted Technique. In this paper, the main results for exercise I-2 “Lattice Physics” are presented for the criticality calculations of PWR. These criticality calculations are done for a15×15TMI fuel assembly at four different states: HZP-Unrodded, HZP-Rodded, HFP-Unrodded, and HFP-Rodded. The results of the two different codes above are presented and compared. The comparison proves a good agreement between SCALE-6.1 and MCNPX-2.7e inkeffuncertainty that comes from the sensitivity coefficients calculated by both codes. Differences are found when the sensitivity profiles are analysed, but they do not lead to differences in thekeffuncertainty.
Pancreas as Delayed Site of Metastasis from Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Tunio Mutahir A. , AlAsiri Mushabbab , Riaz Khalid , AlShakweer Wafa
Published: March 2013

Introduction. Follicular variant (FV) papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) has aggressive biologic behavior as compared to classic variant (CV) of PTC and frequently metastasizes to the lungs and bones. However, metastasis to the pancreas is extremely rare manifestation of FV-PTC. To date, only 9 cases of PTC have been reported in the literature. Pancreatic metastases from PTC usually remain asymptomatic or manifest as repeated abdominal aches. Associated obstructive jaundice is rare. Prognosis is variable with reported median survival from 16 to 46 months.Case Presentation. Herein we present a 67-year-old Saudi woman, who developed pancreatic metastases seven years after total thyroidectomy and neck dissection followed by radioactive iodine ablation (RAI) for FV-PTC. Metastasectomy was performed by pancreaticoduodenectomy followed by sorafenib as genetic testing revealed a BRAF V600E mutation. She survived 32 months after the pancreatic metastasis diagnosis.Conclusion. Pancreatic metastases are rare manifestation of FV-PTC and are usually sign of extensive disease and conventional diagnostic tools may remain to reach the diagnosis.
The Near Subnormal Weighted Shift and Recursiveness
Authors: Ben Taher R. , Rachidi M.
Published: March 2013

We aim at studying the near subnormality of the unilateral weighted shifts, whose moment sequences are defined by linear recursive relations of finite order. Using the basic properties of recursive sequences, we provide a natural necessary condition, that ensure the near subnormality of this important class of weighted shifs. Some related new results are established; moreover, applications and consequences are presented; notably the notion of near subnormal completion weighted shift is implanted and explored.
The Role of E3 Ubiquitin Ligase Cbl Proteins in Interleukin-2-Induced Jurkat T-Cell Activation
Authors: Zhao Ming-Fang , Qu Xiu-Juan , Qu Jing-Lei , Jiang You-Hong , Zhang Ye , Hou Ke-Zuo , Deng Hao , Liu Yun-Peng
Published: March 2013

Interleukin- (IL-) 2 is the major growth factor for T-cell activation and proliferation. IL-2 has multiple functions in the regulation of immunological processes. Although most studies focus on T-cell immunomodulation, T-cell activation by IL-2 is the foundation of priming the feedback loop. Here, we investigated the effect of MAPK/ERK and PI3K/Akt signaling pathways on IL-2-induced cell activation and the regulatory mechanisms of upstream ubiquitin ligase Cbl-b and c-Cbl. Morphological analysis of Jurkat T cells was performed by cytospin preparations with Wright-Giemsa stain. CD25 expression on Jurkat T cells was determined by flow cytometry. Changes in cell activation proteins such as p-ERK, ERK, p-Akt, Akt, and ubiquitin ligase Casitas B-cell Lymphoma (Cbl) proteins were analyzed by western blot. Following IL-2-induced activation of Jurkat T cells, p-ERK expression was upregulated, while there was no change in p-Akt, ERK, or Akt expression. Thus, the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway, but not PI3K/Akt, was involved in IL-2-induced T-cell activation. Either using PD98059 (a specific inhibitor for p-ERK) or depletion of ERK with small interfering RNA (siRNA) reduced the expression of CD25. This study also showed that ubiquitin ligase proteins Cbl-b and c-Cbl might be involved in IL-2-induced Jurkat T-cell activation by negatively regulating the MAPK/ERK signaling pathway.
Real Fast Structure-Preserving Algorithm for Eigenproblem of Complex Hermitian Matrices
Authors: Lai Jiangzhou , Lu Linzhang
Published: March 2013

It is well known that the flops for complex operations are usually 4 times of real cases. In the paper, using real operations instead of complex, a real fast structure-preserving algorithm for eigenproblem of complex Hermitian matrices is given. We make use of the real symmetric and skew-Hamiltonian structure transformed by Wilkinson's way, focus on symplectic orthogonal similarity transformations and their structure-preserving property, and then reduce it into a two-by-two block tridiagonal symmetric matrix. Finally a real algorithm can be quickly obtained for eigenvalue problems of the original Hermitian matrix. Numerical experiments show that the fast algorithm can solve real complex Hermitian matrix efficiently, stably, and with high precision.
A Rare Case of Effusive Constrictive Cholesterol Pericarditis: A Case Report and Review
Authors: Adamson Van W. , Slim Jennifer N. , Leclerc Kenneth M. , Slim Ahmad M.
Published: March 2013

Effusive constrictive cholesterol pericarditis is exceedingly rare. Most cases have an unclear etiology but can be associated with rheumatoid arthritis, tuberculosis infection, and hypothyroidism. The hallmark of the effusion is the distinctively high levels of cholesterol. We present the case of a 68-year-old male with prolonged symptoms of dyspnea with associated moderate pericardial effusion that were later determined to be constrictive effusive etiology, and the patient was referred for stripping with pathologic cholesterol crystal formation on pathology review.
Global Attractivity Results on Complete Ordered Metric Spaces for Third-Order Difference Equations
Authors: Abbas Mujahid , Berzig Maher
Published: March 2013

We establish fixed-point theorems for mixed monotone mappings in the setting of ordered metric spaces which satisfy a contractive condition for all points that are related by a given ordering. We also give a global attractivity result for all solutions of the difference equation where satisfies certain monotonicity conditions with respect to the given ordering. As an application of our obtained results, we present some iterative algorithms to solve a class of matrix equations. A numerical example is also presented to test the validity of the algorithms.
Fractal Analysis of Permeability of Unsaturated Fractured Rocks
Authors: Jiang Guoping , Shi Wei , Huang Lili
Published: March 2013

A physical conceptual model for water retention in fractured rocks is derived while taking into account the effect of pore size distribution and tortuosity of capillaries. The formula of calculating relative hydraulic conductivity of fractured rock is given based on fractal theory. It is an issue to choose an appropriate capillary pressure‐saturation curve in the research of unsaturated fractured mass. The geometric pattern of the fracture bulk is described based on the fractal distribution of tortuosity. The resulting water content expression is then used to estimate the unsaturated hydraulic conductivity of the fractured medium based on the well‐known model of Burdine. It is found that for large enough ranges of fracture apertures the new constitutive model converges to the empirical Brooks‐Corey model.
Track-Bridge Longitudinal Interaction of Continuous Welded Rails on Arch Bridge
Authors: Chen Rong , Wang Ping , Wei Xian-kui
Published: March 2013

Taking arch bridges, including deck, half-through, and through arch bridges (short for DAB, HTAB, and TAB) as examples, mechanics analysis models of longitudinal interaction between continuously welded rails (short for CWRs) and arch bridges are established. Based on the finite element method (FEM), the longitudinal interaction calculation software of CWR on arch bridges has been developed. Focusing on an HTAB, the tension, compression, and deflection conditions are calculated and analyzed. The results show that the mechanics analysis models of three types of arch bridges can truly reflect the real state of the structure; the calculation software can be used for systematic research of the CWR on arch bridge; as for HTAB, temperature difference of arch rib has a small effect on rail tension/compression, and arch bridge can be simplified as a continuous beam for rail tension/compression additional force calculation; in calculation of deflection conditions of HTAB, it is suggested that train loads are arranged on half span and full span and take the direction of load entering bridge into account. Additionally, the deflection additional force variation of CFST basket handle arch bridge is different from that of ordinary bridge.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Adrenal Neuroblastoma: A Case Report with a Brief Review of the Literature
Authors: Erol Onur , Süren Dinç , Büyükkınacı Erol Melek
Published: March 2013

A case of adrenal cystic neuroblastoma detected at 37 weeks of gestation is reported. Postnatal ultrasonographic examination showed slightly increased in size demonstrating marked septations within the cyst. After the tumor was resected, histopathological examinations confirmed the diagnosis. The patient is developing normally at 1 year of age.
Combined Spinal-Epidural Analgesia for Laboring Parturient with Arnold-Chiari Type I Malformation: A Case Report and a Review of the Literature
Authors: Choi Clark K. , Tyagaraj Kalpana
Published: March 2013

Anesthetic management of laboring parturients with Arnold-Chiari type I malformation poses a difficult challenge for the anesthesiologist. The increase in intracranial pressure during uterine contractions, coughing, valsalva maneuvers, and expulsion of the fetus can be detrimental to the mother during the process of labor and delivery. No concrete evidence has implicated high cerebral spinal fluid pressure on maternal and fetal complications. The literature on the use of neuraxial techniques for managing parturients with Arnold-Chiari is extremely scarce. While most anesthesiologists advocate epidural analgesia for management of labor pain and spinal anesthesia for cesarean section, we are the first to report the use of combined spinal-epidural analgesia for managing labor pain in a pregnant woman with Arnold-Chiari type I malformation. Also, we have reviewed the literature and presented information from case reports and case series to support the safe usage of neuraxial techniques in these patients.
The Most Important Maglev Applications
Authors: Yaghoubi Hamid
Published: March 2013

The name maglev is derived from magnetic levitation. Magnetic levitation is a highly advanced technology. It has various uses. The common point in all applications is the lack of contact and thus no wear and friction. This increases efficiency, reduces maintenance costs, and increases the useful life of the system. The magnetic levitation technology can be used as an efficient technology in the various industries. There are already many countries that are attracted to maglev systems. Many systems have been proposed in different parts of the worlds. This paper tries to study the most important uses of magnetic levitation technology. The results clearly reflect that the maglev can be conveniently considered as a solution for the future engineering needs of the world.
Oxidative Stress in Cardiovascular Diseases and Obesity: Role of p66Shc and Protein Kinase C
Authors: De Marchi Elena , Baldassari Federica , Bononi Angela , Wieckowski Mariusz R. , Pinton Paolo
Published: March 2013

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are a byproduct of the normal metabolism of oxygen and have important roles in cell signalling and homeostasis. An imbalance between ROS production and the cellular antioxidant defence system leads to oxidative stress. Environmental factors and genetic interactions play key roles in oxidative stress mediated pathologies. In this paper, we focus on cardiovascular diseases and obesity, disorders strongly related to each other; in which oxidative stress plays a fundamental role. We provide evidence of the key role played byp66Shcprotein and protein kinase C (PKC) in these pathologies by their intracellular regulation of redox balance and oxidative stress levels. Additionally, we discuss possible therapeutic strategies aimed at attenuating the oxidative damage in these diseases.
Experimental Investigation into the Forced Convective Heat Transfer of Aqueous Fe3O4 Nanofluids under Transition Region
Authors: Ma Jie , Xu Yinchen , Li Wenlie , Zhao Jiantao , Zhang Shuping , Basov Sergey
Published: March 2013

The forced convective heat transfer (FCHT) properties of nanofluids, made of Fe3O4 nanomaterials and deionized water, are firstly measured by a self-made forced convective heat transfer apparatus. The nanofluid flows through a horizontal copper tube in the transition region with Reynolds numbers in the range of 2500–5000. Some parameters including Reynolds number, axial distance, and mass concentration are also investigated. The preliminary results are firstly presented that the heat transfer coefficients of Fe3O4 nanofluids systematically decrease with increasing concentration of nanoparticles under transition region which contradicts the initial expectation.
Neurotoxic Effects oftrans-Glutaconic Acid in Rats
Authors: Schuck Patrícia F. , Busanello Estela N. B. , Tonin Anelise M. , Viegas Carolina M. , Ferreira Gustavo C.
Published: March 2013

trans-Glutaconic acid (tGA) is an unsaturated C5-dicarboxylic acid which may be found accumulated in glutaric aciduria type I, whose pathophysiology is still uncertain. In the present work it was investigated thein vitroeffect of increasingtGA concentrations on neurochemical and oxidative stress parameters in rat cerebral cortex. We observed that Na+, K+-ATPase activity was reduced bytGA, but not creatine kinase, respiratory chain complex IV, and ATP synthase activities. On the other hand,tGA significantly increased lipid peroxidation (thiobarbituric acid-reactive species levels and spontaneous chemiluminescence), as well as protein oxidative damage (oxidation of sulfhydryl groups).tGA also significantly decreased nonenzymatic antioxidant defenses (TRAP and reduced glutathione levels). Our data suggest thattGA may be neurotoxic in rat brain.
Exercise-Induced Anaphylaxis: A Case Report and Review of the Diagnosis and Treatment of a Rare but Potentially Life-Threatening Syndrome
Authors: Jaqua Nathan T. , Peterson Matthew R. , Davis Karla L.
Published: March 2013

A 24-year-old male Marine with an uncomplicated medical history and a long history of strenuous, daily exercise presented to the emergency department after experiencing anaphylactic shock while running. Symptoms resolved following administration of intramuscular diphenhydramine, ranitidine, intravenous methylprednisolone, and intravenous fluids. On followup in the allergy clinic, a meticulous clinical history was obtained which elucidated a picture consistent with exercise-induced anaphylaxis. He had experienced diffuse pruritus and urticaria while exercising on multiple occasions over the last three years. His symptoms would usually increase as exercise continued. Prior to the first episode, he regularly exercised without symptoms. Exercise-induced anaphylaxis is a rare but potentially life-threatening syndrome that requires a careful clinical history and is a diagnosis of exclusion. Treatment is primarily exercise avoidance. Prophylactic mediations are inconsistently effective but are empirically used. Successful treatment with omalizumab was recently reported in a case of refractory exercise-induced anaphylaxis.
Obesity-Associated Abdominal Elephantiasis
Authors: Kohli Ritesh , Argento Vivian , Amoateng-Adjepong Yaw
Published: March 2013

Abdominal elephantiasis is a rare entity. Abdominal elephantiasis is an uncommon, but deformative and progressive cutaneous disease caused by chronic lymphedema and recurrent streptococcal orStaphylococcusinfections of the abdominal wall. We present 3 cases of patients with morbid obesity who presented to our hospital with abdominal wall swelling, thickening, erythema, and pain. The abdominal wall and legs were edematous, with cobblestone-like, thickened, hyperpigmented, and fissured plaques on the abdomen. Two patients had localised areas of skin erythema, tenderness, and increased warmth. There was purulent drainage from the abdominal wall in one patient. They were managed with antibiotics with some initial improvement. Meticulous skin care and local keratolytic treatment for the lesions were initiated with limited success due to their late presentation. All three patients refused surgical therapy.Conclusion. Early diagnosis is important for the treatment of abdominal elephantiasis and prevention of complications.
Comparing Effects of BK Virus Agnoprotein and Herpes Simplex-1 ICP47 on MHC-I and MHC-II Expression
Authors: Cioni Michela , Mittelholzer Christian , Wernli Marion , Hirsch Hans H.
Published: March 2013

Background. Among human polyomaviruses, only BK virus (BKV) and JC virus (JCV) encode an agnoprotein upstream of VP1 on the viral late transcript. BKV agnoprotein is abundantly expressed late in the viral life cycle, but specific cellular and humoral immune responses are low or absent. We hypothesized that agnoprotein might contribute to BKV immune evasion by downregulating HLA expression, similar to Herpes simplex virus-1 ICP47. Methods UTA-6 or primary human renal proximal tubular epithelial cells (RPTEC) were co-transfected with plasmids constitutively expressing agnoprotein, or ICP47, and enhanced green-fluorescent protein (EGFP). EGFP-gated cells were analyzed for HLA-ABC and HLA-DR expression by flow cytometry. HLA-ABC and HLA-DR expression was also analyzed on UTA-6 bearing tetracycline-regulated agnoprotein or ICP47. Effects of agnoprotein on viral peptide-dependent T-cell killing were investigated using51Cr release.Results. ICP47 downregulated HLA-ABC without affecting HLA-DR, whereas agnoprotein did not affect HLA-ABC or HLA-DR expression. Interferon-γtreatment increased HLA-ABC in a dose-dependent manner, which was antagonized by ICP47, but not by agnoprotein. In UTA-6 cells, agnoprotein expression did neither impair HLA-ABC or -DR expression nor peptide-specific killing impaired by HLA-matched T-cells.Conclusion. Unlike the HSV-1 ICP47, BKV agnoprotein does not contribute to viral immune evasion by down-regulating HLA-ABC, or interfere with HLA-DR expression or peptide-dependent T-cell cytotoxicity.
A Multicenter, Prospective Study of a New Fully Covered Expandable Metal Biliary Stent for the Palliative Treatment of Malignant Bile Duct Obstruction
Authors: Petersen Bret T. , Kahaleh Michel , Kozarek Richard A. , Loren David , Gupta Kapil , Kowalski Thomas , Freeman Martin , Chen Yang K. , Branch Malcolm S. , Edmundowicz Steven , Gluck Michael , Binmoeller Kenneth , Baron Todd H. , Shah Raj J. , Kinney Timothy , Ross William , Jowell Paul , Carr-Locke David
Published: March 2013

Background and Study Aims. Endoscopic placement of self-expanding metal stents (SEMSs) is indicated for palliation of inoperable malignant biliary obstruction. A fully covered biliary SEMS (WallFlex Biliary RX Boston Scientific, Natick, USA) was assessed for palliation of extrahepatic malignant biliary obstruction.Patients and Methods. 58 patients were included in this prospective, multicenter series conducted under an FDA-approved IDE. Main outcome measurements included (1) absence of stent occlusion within six months or until death, whichever occurred first and (2) technical success, need for reintervention, bilirubin levels, stent patency, time to stent occlusion, and adverse events.Results. Technical success was achieved in 98% (57/58), with demonstrated acute removability in two patients. Adequate clinical palliation until completion of followup was achievedin 98% (54/55) ofevaluablepatients, with 1 reintervention due to stent obstruction after 142 days. Mean total bilirubin decreased from 8.9 mg/dL to 1.2 mg/dL at 1 month. Device-related adverse events were limited and included 2 cases of cholecystitis. One stent migrated following radiation therapy.Conclusions. The WallFlex Biliary fully covered stent yielded technically successful placement with uncomplicated acute removal where required, appropriate reduction in bilirubin levels, and low rates of stent migration and occlusion. This SEMS allows successful palliation of malignant extrahepatic biliary obstruction.