bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extraocular Muscles Tension, Tonus, and Proprioception in Infantile Strabismus: Role of the Oculomotor System in the Pathogenesis of Infantile Strabismus—Review of the Literature
Authors: Schiavi Costantino
Published: February 2016

The role played by the extraocular muscles (EOMs) in the etiology of concomitant infantile strabismus is still debated and it has not yet definitively established if the sensory anomalies in concomitant strabismus are a consequence or a primary cause of the deviation. The commonest theory supposes that most strabismus results from abnormal innervation of the EOMs, but the cause of this dysfunction and its origin, whether central or peripheral, are still unknown. The interaction between sensory factors and innervational factors, that is, esotonus, accommodation, convergence, divergence, and vestibular reflexes in visually immature infants with family predisposition, is suspected to create conditions that prevent binocular alignment from stabilizing and strengthening. Some role in the onset of fixation instability and infantile strabismus could be played by the feedback control of eye movements and by dysfunction of eye muscle proprioception during the critical period of development of the visual sensory system. A possible role in the onset, maintenance, or worsening of the deviation of abnormalities of muscle force which have their clinical equivalent in eye muscle overaction and underaction has been investigated under either isometric or isotonic conditions, and in essence no significant anomalies of muscle force have been found in concomitant strabismus.
Cancer-Associated Immune Resistance and Evasion of Immune Surveillance in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Parcesepe Pietro , Giordano Guido , Laudanna Carmelo , Febbraro Antonio , Pancione Massimo
Published: February 2016

Data from molecular profiles of tumors and tumor associated cells provide a model in which cancer cells can acquire the capability of avoiding immune surveillance by expressing an immune-like phenotype. Recent works reveal that expression of immune antigens (PDL1, CD47, CD73, CD14, CD68, MAC387, CD163, DAP12, and CD15) by tumor cells “immune resistance,” combined with prometastatic function of nonmalignant infiltrating cells, may represent a strategy to overcome the rate-limiting steps of metastatic cascade through (a) enhanced interactions with protumorigenic myeloid cells and escape from T-dependent immune response mediated by CD8+ and natural killer (NK) cells; (b) production of immune mediators that establish a local and systemic tumor-supportive environment (premetastatic niche); (c) ability to survive either in the peripheral blood as circulating tumor cells (CTCs) or at the metastatic site forming a cooperative prometastatic loop with foreign “myeloid” cells, macrophages, and neutrophils, respectively. The development of cancer-specific “immune resistance” can be orchestrated either by cooperation with tumor microenvironment or by successive rounds of genetic/epigenetic changes. Recognition of the applicability of this model may provide effective therapeutic avenues for complete elimination of immune-resistant metastatic cells and for enhanced antitumor immunity as part of a combinatorial strategy.
Total Humeral Endoprosthetic Replacement following Excision of Malignant Bone Tumors
Authors: Kotwal Suhel , Moon Bryan , Lin Patrick , Satcher Robert , Lewis Valerae
Published: February 2016

Humerus is a common site for malignant tumors. Advances in adjuvant therapies and reconstructive methods provide salvage of the upper limb with improved outcomes. Reports of limb salvage with total humeral replacement in extensive humeral tumors are sparse. We undertook a retrospective study of 20 patients who underwent total humeral endoprosthetic replacement as limb salvage following excision of extensile malignant tumor from 1990 to 2011. With an average followup of 42.9, functional and oncological outcomes were analyzed. Ten patients were still alive at the time of review. Mean estimated blood loss was 1131 mL and duration of surgery was 314 minutes. Deep infection was encountered in one patient requiring debridement while mechanical loosening of ulnar component was identified in one patient. Subluxation of prosthetic humeral head was noted in 3 patients. Mean active shoulder abduction was 12.5° and active flexion was 15°. Incompetence of abduction mechanism was the major determinant of poor active functional outcome. Mean elbow flexion was 103.5° with 30.5° flexion contracture in 10 patients with good and useful hand function. Average MSTS score was 71.5%. Total humeral replacement is a reliable treatment option in restoring mechanical stability and reasonable functional results without compromising patient survival, with low complication rate.
Design and Evaluation of a Proxy-Based Monitoring System for OpenFlow Networks
Authors: Taniguchi Yoshiaki , Tsutsumi Hiroaki , Iguchi Nobukazu , Watanabe Kenzi
Published: February 2016

Software-Defined Networking (SDN) has attracted attention along with the popularization of cloud environment and server virtualization. In SDN, the control plane and the data plane are decoupled so that the logical topology and routing control can be configured dynamically depending on network conditions. To obtain network conditions precisely, a network monitoring mechanism is necessary. In this paper, we focus on OpenFlow which is a core technology to realize SDN. We propose, design, implement, and evaluate a network monitoring system for OpenFlow networks. Our proposed system acts as a proxy between an OpenFlow controller and OpenFlow switches. Through experimental evaluations, we confirm that our proposed system can capture packets and monitor traffic information depending on administrator’s configuration. In addition, we show that our proposed system does not influence significant performance degradation to overall network performance.
Inner Product over Fuzzy Matrices
Authors: Gani A. Nagoor , Kannan K. , Manikandan A. R.
Published: February 2016

The purpose of this study was to introduce the inner product over fuzzy matrices. By virtue of this definition,α-norm is defined and the parallelogram law is proved. Again the relative fuzzy norm with respect to the inner product over fuzzy matrices is defined. Moreover Cauchy Schwarz inequality, Pythagoras, and Fundamental Minimum Principle are established. Some equivalent conditions are also proved.
Determinants of Noncompliance to Clinic Appointments and Medications among Nigerian Children with Epilepsy: Experience in a Tertiary Health Facility in Enugu, Nigeria
Authors: Ibekwe Roland Chidi , Ndukuba Appolos Chidi , Aronu Ann Ebele , Eke Christopher Bismarck , Ibekwe MaryAnn Ugochi , Ojinnaka Ngozi Chinyelu
Published: February 2016

Purpose. To determine the frequency and determinants of noncompliance to clinic appointment and medication among Nigerian children with epilepsy.Method. This is a cross-sectional survey of noncompliance to clinic appointments and medication among 113 consecutive children with epilepsy attending the Paediatric Neurology Clinic of University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu, southeastern Nigeria.Results. Noncompliance to clinic appointment and medication was 23% and 15.3%, respectively. The major reasons given were lack of finance, clashing with school time, and forgetting to take the drugs. Children whose mothers were less educated and unemployed were more likely to miss clinic appointments. Noncompliance to medication was associated with poor seizure control. Children that were on phenobarbitone were more likely to be noncompliant with medication than those on sodium valproate and/or carbamazepine.Conclusion. Missed clinic appointment and medication noncompliance are common among Nigerian children with epilepsy and financial constraint is the most common reason.
Foregut Duplication Cyst of the Stomach: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Tjendra Y. , Lyapichev K. , Henderson J. , Rojas C. P.
Published: February 2016

Duplication cyst of the stomach is a rare congenital malformation, typically diagnosed in the first year of life. In most adult cases the cyst remains asymptomatic, but patients may present with abdominal symptoms including epigastric discomfort or pain. We present a case of a 65-year-old male with an asymptomatic gastric tumor diagnosed incidentally during initial workup of his esophageal adenocarcinoma. Computed tomography revealed a low density soft tissue tumor near the gastroesophageal junction. Endoscopic ultrasonography demonstrated a cystic lesion as a hypoechoic round mass with well-defined borders. Following complete laparoscopic resection, microscopic review revealed a cyst lined with respiratory pseudostratified ciliated columnar epithelium and layers of smooth muscle with an outermost thin fibrous capsule consistent with a foregut duplication cyst.
Characterization of IXINITY® (Trenonacog Alfa), a Recombinant Factor IX with Primary Sequence Corresponding to the Threonine-148 Polymorph
Authors: Monroe Dougald M. , Jenny Richard J. , Van Cott Kevin E. , Buhay Shelly , Saward Laura L.
Published: February 2016

The goal of these studies was to extensively characterize the first recombinant FIX therapeutic corresponding to the threonine-148 (Thr-148) polymorph, IXINITY (trenonacog alfa [coagulation factor IX (recombinant)]). Gel electrophoresis, circular dichroism, and gel filtration were used to determine purity and confirm structure. Chromatographic and mass spectrometry techniques were used to identify and quantify posttranslational modifications. Activity was assessed as the ability to activate factor X (FX) both with and without factor VIIIa (FVIIIa) and in a standard clotting assay. All results were consistent across multiple lots. Trenonacog alfa migrated as a single band on Coomassie-stained gels; activity assays were normal and showed <0.002 IU of activated factor IX (FIXa) per IU of FIX. The molecule has >97%  γ-carboxylation and underwent the appropriate structural change upon binding calcium ions. Trenonacog alfa was activated normally with factor XIa (FXIa); once activated it bound to FVIIIa and FXa. When activated to FIXa, it was inhibited efficiently by antithrombin. Glycosylation patterns were similar to plasma-derived FIX with sialic acid content consistent with the literature reports of good pharmacokinetic performance. These studies have shown that trenonacog alfa is a highly pure product with a primary sequence and posttranslational modifications consistent with the common Thr-148 polymorphism of plasma-derived FIX.
Usefulness of Endoscopic Indices in Determination of Disease Activity in Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Kucharski Marcin , Karczewski Jacek , Mańkowska-Wierzbicka Dorota , Karmelita-Katulska Katarzyna , Kaczmarek Elżbieta , Iwanik Katarzyna , Rzymski Piotr , Grzymisławski Marian , Linke Krzysztof , Dobrowolska Agnieszka
Published: February 2016

Background. Assessment of endoscopic activity of Crohn’s disease (CD) is of growing importance both in clinical practice and in clinical trials. The study aimed to assess which of the endoscopic indices used for evaluation of mucosal changes correlates with the currently used clinical indices for determination of disease activity and with the results of histopathological examination.Study. A group of 71 patients with CD and 52 individuals without a diagnosis of GI tract disease as a control group were investigated, considering clinical and histological severity of the disease and the severity of inflammatory changes in the bowel. Evaluation was conducted with the use of clinical, endoscopic, and histopathological indices. Endoscopic indices were then correlated with different clinical and histopathological indices with the aim of finding the strongest correlations.Results and Conclusions. Correlation between the clinical disease activity and the severity of endoscopic lesions in CD was shown in this study to be poor. The results also indicate that the optimal endoscopic index used in the diagnostic stage and in the assessment of treatment effects in CD is Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s Disease (SES-CD).
Modeling of Particle Trajectory and Erosion of Large Rotor Blades
Authors: Ghenaiet Adel
Published: February 2016

When operating in hostile environments, engines components are facing a serious problem of erosion, leading to a drastic drop in aerodynamic performance and life-cycle. This paper outlines the modeling and simulation of particle trajectory and erosion induced by sand particles. The governing equations of particle dynamics through the moving of large rotor blades are introduced and solved separately from the flow field by using our in-house particle tracking code based on the finite element method. As the locations of impacts are predicted, the erosion is assessed by semiempirical correlations in terms of impact conditions and particle and target surface characteristics. The results of these computations carried out for different concentrations of suspended dust (sand) cloud generated at takeoff conditions reveal the main areas of impacts with high rates of erosion seen over a large strip from the blade suction side, around the leading edge and the pressure side of blade. The assessment of the blade geometry deterioration reveals that the upper corner of blade suffers from an intense erosion wear.
IL-6 Inhibition Reduces STAT3 Activation and Enhances the Antitumor Effect of Carboplatin
Authors: Wang Zhi-Yong , Zhang Jun-Ai , Wu Xian-Jin , Liang Yan-Fang , Lu Yuan-Bin , Gao Yu-Chi , Dai You-Chao , Yu Shi-Yan , Jia Yan , Fu Xiao-Xia , Rao Xiaoquan , Xu Jun-Fa , Zhong Jixin
Published: February 2016

Recent studies suggest that tumor-associated macrophage-produced IL-6 is an important mediator within the tumor microenvironment that promotes tumor growth. The activation of IL-6/STAT3 axis has been associated with chemoresistance and poor prognosis of a variety of cancers including colorectal carcinoma and thus serves as a potential immunotherapeutic target for cancer treatment. However, it is not fully understood whether anticytokine therapy could reverse chemosensitivity and enhance the suppressive effect of chemotherapy on tumor growth. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of IL-6 inhibition therapy on the antitumor effect of carboplatin. Enhanced expression of IL-6 and activation of STAT3 were observed in human colorectal carcinoma samples compared to normal colorectal tissue, with higher levels of IL-6/STAT3 in low grade carcinomas. Treatment of carboplatin (CBP) dose-dependently increased IL-6 production and STAT3 activation in human colorectal LoVo cells. Blockade of IL-6 with neutralizing antibody enhanced chemosensitivity of LoVo cells to carboplatin as evidenced by increased cell apoptosis. IL-6 blockade abolished carboplatin-induced STAT3 activation. IL-6 blockade and carboplatin synergistically reduced cyclin D1 expression and enhanced caspase-3 activity in LoVo cells. Our results suggest that inhibition of IL-6 may enhance chemosensitivity of colon cancers with overactive STAT3 to platinum agents.
Synthesis, Characterization, and Photocatalytic Performance of Mesoporous α-Mn2O3 Microspheres Prepared via a Precipitation Route
Authors: Pudukudy Manoj , Yaakob Zahira
Published: February 2016

α-Mn2O3 microspheres with high phase purity, crystallinity, and surface area were synthesized by the thermal decomposition of precipitated MnCO3 microspheres without the use of any structure directing agents and tedious reaction conditions. The prepared Mn2O3 microspheres were characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and photoluminescence (PL) studies. The complete thermal transformation of MnCO3 to Mn2O3 was clearly shown by the FTIR and XRD analysis. The electron microscopic images clearly confirmed the microsphere-like morphology of the products with some structural deformation for the calcined Mn2O3 sample. The mesoporous texture generated from the interaggregation of subnanoparticles in the microstructures is visibly evident from the TEM and BET studies. Moreover, the Mn2O3 microstructures showed a moderate photocatalytic activity for the degradation of methylene blue dye pollutant under UV light irradiation, using air as the potential oxidizing agent.
Visual Recovery after Primary Retinal Detachment Surgery: Biofeedback Rehabilitative Strategy
Authors: Vingolo Enzo M. , Fragiotta Serena , Domanico Daniela , Limoli Paolo G. , Nebbioso Marcella , Spadea Leopoldo
Published: February 2016

Purpose. To evaluate possible speeding up recovery time after retinal detachment (RD) surgery using biofeedback strategy.Methods. A total of 52 eyes were selected. After surgery, patients were divided into two groups: group A, including patients submitted to biofeedback with MP-1 strategy; group B, patients who received common care strategy. Biofeedback strategy was started 15 days after the suspension of cycloplegic eye drops in buckling procedure or after silicone oil removal in the vitrectomized eyes. Controls were scheduled at baseline and 6, 12, and 18 weeks.Results. At baseline, there was no significant difference in BCVA between groups (P=0.4230). At the end of biofeedback treatment (WK 6) BCVA of group A was significantly better (P<0.001) than group B and BCVA was still better in group A than group B at WK 12 (P=0.028) and at WK 18 (P=0.041).Conclusions. Visual recovery after RD surgery is still unclear, and it does not depend on entity of the RD. Our data demonstrate that in biofeedback group there was a significant recovery in visual performances that still remains evident after 3 months from the baseline.
Infrared Radiation Assisted Stokes’ Law Based Synthesis and Optical Characterization of ZnS Nanoparticles
Authors: Singh Beer Pal , Upadhyay Ravish Kumar , Kumar Rakesh , Yadav Kamna , Areizaga-Martinez Hector I.
Published: February 2016

The strategy and technique exploited in the synthesis of nanostructure materials have an explicit effect on the nucleation, growth, and properties of product materials. Nanoparticles of zinc sulfide (ZnS) have been synthesized by new infrared radiation (IR) assisted and Stokes’ law based controlled bottom-up approach without using any capping agent and stirring. IR has been used for heating the reaction surface designed in accordance with the well-known Stokes law for a free body falling in a quiescent fluid for the synthesis of ZnS nanoparticles. The desired concentration of aqueous solutions of zinc nitrate (Zn(NO3)2·4H2O) and thioacetamide (CH3CSNH2) was reacted in a controlled manner by IR radiation heating at the reaction area (top layer of reactants solution) of the solution which results in the formation of ZnS nanoparticles at ambient conditions following Stokes’ law for a free body falling in a quiescent fluid. The phase, crystal structure, and particle size of as-synthesized nanoparticles were studied by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The optical properties of as-synthesized ZnS nanoparticles were studied by means of optical absorption spectroscopic measurements. The optical energy band gap and the nature of transition have been studied using the well-known Tauc relation with the help of absorption spectra of as-synthesized ZnS nanoparticles.
Enchondroma versus Chondrosarcoma in Long Bones of Appendicular Skeleton: Clinical and Radiological Criteria—A Follow-Up
Authors: Ferrer-Santacreu Eugenio M. , Ortiz-Cruz Eduardo J. , Díaz-Almirón Mariana , Pozo Kreilinger Jose Juan
Published: February 2016

As of today two types of cartilage tumors remain a challenge even for the orthopedic oncologist: enchondroma (E), a benign tumor, and chondrosarcoma (LGC), a malignant and low aggressiveness tumor. A prospective study of 133 patients with a cartilaginous tumor of low aggressiveness in the long bones of the appendicular skeleton was done to prove this difficult differential diagnosis. Parameters including medical history and radiological and nuclear imaging were collected and compared to the result of the biopsy. A scale of aggressiveness was applied to each patient according to the number of aggressiveness episodes present. A comparison of the results of the biopsy with the initial diagnosis made by the orthopedic oncologist based solely on clinical data and imaging tests was also made. Finally, a management algorithm for these cases was proposed. A statistical significance for LGC resulted from the parameter as follows: pain on palpation, involvement of cortical in either the CT or MRI, and Tc99 bone scan uptake equal or superior to anterosuperior iliac crest. In our series, a tumor scoring 5 points or higher in the scale of aggressiveness can have 50% more chance of being LGC. When compared with the gold standard (the biopsy), surgeon’s initial judgement showed a sensitivity of 73.5% and a specificity of 94.1%.
Coronary Thrombosis without Dissection following Blunt Trauma
Authors: Sinha Archana , Sibel Michael , Thomas Peter , Burt Francis , Cipolla James , Puleo Peter , Baker Keith
Published: February 2016

Blunt trauma to the chest resulting in coronary thrombosis and ST elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) is a rare but well-described occurrence in adults. Angiography in such cases has generally disclosed complete epicardial coronary occlusion with thrombus, indistinguishable from the findings commonly found in spontaneous plaque rupture due to atherosclerotic disease. In all previously reported cases in which coronary interrogation with intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) was performed in association with acute revascularization, coronary artery dissection was implicated as the etiology of coronary thrombosis. We present the first case report of blunt trauma-associated coronary thrombosis without underlying atherosclerosis or coronary dissection, as documented by IVUS imaging.
Microelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy for the Differentiation between Normal and Cancerous Human Urothelial Cell Lines: Real-Time Electrical Impedance Measurement at an Optimal Frequency
Authors: Park Yangkyu , Kim Hyeon Woo , Yun Joho , Seo Seungwan , Park Chang-Ju , Lee Jeong Zoo , Lee Jong-Hyun
Published: February 2016

Purpose. To distinguish between normal (SV-HUC-1) and cancerous (TCCSUP) human urothelial cell lines using microelectrical impedance spectroscopy (μEIS). Materials and Methods. Two types of μEIS devices were designed and used in combination to measure the impedance of SV-HUC-1 and TCCSUP cells flowing through the channels of the devices. The first device (μEIS-OF) was designed to determine the optimal frequency at which the impedance of two cell lines is most distinguishable. The μEIS-OF trapped the flowing cells and measured their impedance at a frequency ranging from 5 kHz to 1 MHz. The second device (μEIS-RT) was designed for real-time impedance measurement of the cells at the optimal frequency. The impedance was measured instantaneously as the cells passed the sensing electrodes of μEIS-RT. Results. The optimal frequency, which maximized the average difference of the amplitude and phase angle between the two cell lines (p<0.001), was determined to be 119 kHz. The real-time impedance of the cell lines was measured at 119 kHz; the two cell lines differed significantly in terms of amplitude and phase angle (p<0.001). Conclusion. The μEIS-RT can discriminate SV-HUC-1 and TCCSUP cells by measuring the impedance at the optimal frequency determined by the μEIS-OF.
Force Sensing Resistor and Evaluation of Technology for Wearable Body Pressure Sensing
Authors: Giovanelli Davide , Farella Elisabetta
Published: February 2016

Wearable technologies are gaining momentum and widespread diffusion. Thanks to devices such as activity trackers, in form of bracelets, watches, or anklets, the end-users are becoming more and more aware of their daily activity routine, posture, and training and can modify their motor-behavior. Activity trackers are prevalently based on inertial sensors such as accelerometers and gyroscopes. Loads we bear with us and the interface pressure they put on our body also affect posture. A contact interface pressure sensing wearable would be beneficial to complement inertial activity trackers. What is precluding force sensing resistors (FSR) to be the next best seller wearable? In this paper, we provide elements to answer this question. We build an FSR based on resistive material (Velostat) and printed conductive ink electrodes on polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrate; we test its response to pressure in the range 0–2.7 kPa. We present a state-of-the-art review, filtered by the need to identify technologies adequate for wearables. We conclude that the repeatability is the major issue yet unsolved.
State and Training Effects of Mindfulness Meditation on Brain Networks Reflect Neuronal Mechanisms of Its Antidepressant Effect
Authors: Yang Chuan-Chih , Barrós-Loscertales Alfonso , Pinazo Daniel , Ventura-Campos Noelia , Borchardt Viola , Bustamante Juan-Carlos , Rodríguez-Pujadas Aina , Fuentes-Claramonte Paola , Balaguer Raúl , Ávila César , Walter Martin
Published: February 2016

The topic of investigating how mindfulness meditation training can have antidepressant effects via plastic changes in both resting state and meditation state brain activity is important in the rapidly emerging field of neuroplasticity. In the present study, we used a longitudinal design investigating resting state fMRI both before and after 40 days of meditation training in 13 novices. After training, we compared differences in network connectivity between rest and meditation using common resting state functional connectivity methods. Interregional methods were paired with local measures such as Regional Homogeneity. As expected, significant differences in functional connectivity both between states (rest versus meditation) and between time points (before versus after training) were observed. During meditation, the internal consistency in the precuneus and the temporoparietal junction increased, while the internal consistency of frontal brain regions decreased. A follow-up analysis of regional connectivity of the dorsal anterior cingulate cortex further revealed reduced connectivity with anterior insula during meditation. After meditation training, reduced resting state functional connectivity between the pregenual anterior cingulate and dorsal medical prefrontal cortex was observed. Most importantly, significantly reduced depression/anxiety scores were observed after training. Hence, these findings suggest that mindfulness meditation might be of therapeutic use by inducing plasticity related network changes altering the neuronal basis of affective disorders such as depression.
A Self-Learning MAC Protocol for Energy Harvesting and Spectrum Access in Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks
Authors: Hawa Mohammed , Darabkh Khalid A. , Al-Zubi Raed , Al-Sukkar Ghazi
Published: February 2016

The fusion of Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) and Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) into Cognitive Radio Sensor Networks (CRSNs) is quite an attractive proposal, because it allows a distributed set of low-powered sensor nodes to opportunistically access spectrum bands that are underutilized by their licensed owners (called primary users (PUs)). In addition, when the PUs are actively transmitting in their own bands, sensor nodes can switch to energy harvesting mode to obtain their energy needs (for free), to achieve almost perpetual life. In this work, we present a novel and fully distributed MAC protocol, calledS-LEARN, that allows sensor nodes in a CRSN to entwine their RF energy harvesting and data transmission activities, while intelligently addressing the issue of disproportionate difference between the high power necessary for the node to transmit data packets and the small amount of power it can harvest wirelessly from the environment. The presented MAC protocol can improve both the network throughput and total harvested energy, while being robust to changes in the network configuration. Moreover, S-LEARN can keep the cost of the system low, and it avoids the pitfalls from which centralized systems suffer.
A New Ultralightweight RFID Mutual Authentication Protocol: SASI Using Recursive Hash
Authors: Mujahid Umar , Najam-ul-Islam M. , Jafri Atif Raza , Qurat-ul-Ain  , Ali Shami M.
Published: February 2016

RFID is one of the most prominent identification schemes in the field of pervasive systems. Nonline of sight capability makes RFID systems much better choice than its contended systems (such as barcode, magnetic tape, etc.). Since the RFID uses wireless channel for communication with its associated devices, there should be some optimal encryption methods to secure the communicating data from adversaries. Several researchers have proposed ultralightweight mutual authentication protocols (UMAPs) to secure the RFID systems in cost effective manner. Unfortunately most of the previously proposed UMAPs are later found to be vulnerable against various desynchronization, Denial of Service (DoS), traceability, and full disclosure attacks. In this paper, we present a more sophisticated UMAP to provide Strong Authentication and Strong Integrity (SASI) using recursive hash function. The proposed protocol incorporates only simple bitwise logical operators XOR, Rot, and nontriangular function (recursive hash) in its design, which can be efficiently implemented with a low cost passive RFID tag. The performance analysis of the protocol proves the conformation of the proposed protocol with EPC-C1G2 passive tags. In addition to privacy and security, small chip area (miniaturization) is another design constraint (which is mandatory requirement for a protocol to be considered as ultralightweight authentication protocol). We have also proposed and implemented the efficient hardware design of the proposed protocol for EPC-C1G2 tags. Both the FPGA and ASIC implementation flows have been adopted. The FPGA flow is primarily used to validate the functionality of the proposed hardware design whereas ASIC flow (using TSMC 0.35  μm library) is used to validate the gate count. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first FPGA and ASIC implementation of any ultralightweight RFID authentication protocol.
Evidence for Use ofAlliaria petiolatain North America by the European Cabbage White Butterfly,Pieris rapae
Authors: Davis Sam L. , Cipollini Don
Published: February 2016

Pieris rapaeL., an invasive crop pest, may have recently begun usingAlliaria petiolataBieb. (Cavara & Grande), a European invasive biennial. We investigated howP. rapaeuses forest habitats for nectar and oviposition and examined larval performance onA. petiolatain the field and laboratory. Being known primarily to occupy open habitats, we found thatP. rapaeregularly uses forest edge habitats, most surveyedA. petiolataplants hadP. rapaedamage, andP. rapaesuccessfully used both stages ofA. petiolatafor larval development.
Einzigartige Hautreaktion auf Tyrosinkinase-Inhibitoren der 2. und 3. Generation bei chronischer myeloischer Leukämie
Authors: Patel Anisha B. , Solomon Alvin R. , Mauro Michael J. , Ehst Benjamin D.
Published: February 2016

Hintergrund: Neu entwickelte Tyrosinkinase-Inhibitoren (TKI) bieten Alternativen für die Erstlinientherapie bei chronischer myeloischer Leukämie. Sie werden im Allgemeinen gut vertragen, lösen jedoch häufig Hautreaktionen aus, die zum Teil schwierig zu beherrschen sind. Wir beschreiben hier eine neu entdeckte Hautreaktion auf Dasatinib und Nilotinib und weiten die Betrachtung auf das neuere Mittel Ponatinib aus. Beobachtungen: Bei 9 Patienten trat ein klinisch und histopathologisch lichenoides Exanthem unterschiedlicher Schwere auf, das durch erythematöse, vorwiegend follikuläre Papeln mit Schuppenbildung sowie Alopezie gekennzeichnet war. Das Muster ähnelt dem des seltenen Graham-Little-Syndroms mit der vernarbenden und nichtvernarbenden Alopezie des Lichen planus follicularis bzw. Lichen planopilaris (LPP) sowie Keratosis-pilaris-ähnlichem LPP. Der begleitend auftretende Pruritus kann sogar so stark sein, dass die Behandlung abgebrochen wird. Schlussfolgerungen: Kliniker sollten sich dieser ungewöhnlichen Reaktion auf neuere TKI und der damit gegebenenfalls verbundenen therapeutischen Herausforderungen bewusst sein. Erkenntnisse über diese Eruptionen könnten auch Hinweise auf mögliche Krankheitsmechanismen bei idiopathischen Formen des Lichen planus follicularis liefern.
Hyperinsulinemic Hypoglycemia after Bariatric Surgery: Diagnosis and Management Experience from a Spanish Multicenter Registry
Authors: Vilarrasa Nuria , Goday Albert , Rubio Miguel Angel , Caixàs Assumpta , Pellitero Silvia , Ciudin Andrea , Calañas Alfonso , Botella José Ignacio , Bretón Irene , Morales María José , Díaz-Fernández María Jesús , García-Luna Pedro Pablo , Lecube Albert
Published: February 2016

Background: Severe postprandial hypoglycemia after bariatric surgery is a rare but invalidating complication. Our aim was to describe the different tests performed for its diagnosis and their outcomes as well as the response to the prescribed pharmacological and surgical treatments. Methods: Multicenter, retrospective systematic review of cases with recurrent severe postprandial hypoglycemia. Results: Over 11 years of follow-up, 22 patients were identified. The test most used to provoke hypoglycemia was the oral glucose load test followed by the mixed meal test which was the least standardized test. With pharmacological treatment, 3 patients were symptom-free (with octreotide) and in 12 patients hypoglycemic episodes were attenuated. Seven patients had persistent hypoglycemic episodes and underwent surgery. Partial pancreatectomy was performed in 3 patients who had positive selective arterial calcium stimulation, and nesidioblastosis was confirmed in 2 patients. Reconversion to normal anatomy was performed in 3 patients, and 1 patient underwent a resection of the ‘candy cane' roux limb, with resolution of hypoglycemia in all cases. Conclusions: There is high heterogeneity in the evaluation and treatment options for postoperative hypoglycemia. In patients that do not respond to pharmacological treatment, reconstruction of gastrojejunal continuity may be the safest and most successful procedure.
N-Carbamylglutamate Is an Effective Treatment for Acute Neonatal Hyperammonaemia in a Patient with Methylmalonic Aciduria
Authors: Yap Sufin , Leong Huey Yin , Abdul Aziz Fadzlina , Hassim Haszlin , Sthaneshwar Pavai , Teh Ser Huy , Abdullah Ili Syazwana , Ngu Lock Hock , Mohamed Zulqarnain
Published: February 2016

N-carbamylglutamate (NCG) has been used in combination with ammonia scavengers (sodium benzoate, sodium phenylbutyrate) and dialysis to treat hyperammonaemia in methylmalonic aciduria (MMA). The sole use of NCG for acute neonatal hyperammonaemia secondary to MMA is demonstrated in a neonate presenting at day 9 with encephalopathy, severe metabolic acidosis, hyperammonaemia (1,089 μmol/l), ketonuria and urinary methylmalonic acids. Emergency treatment included discontinuing protein feeds, providing high calories, carnitine and hydroxocobalamin. NCG 200 mg given at 0 and 90 min decreased plasma ammonia dramatically from 1,089 to 567 µmol/l at 90 min and further to 236 µmol/l at 6 h. Normalisation of ammonia was achieved at 12 h with two further doses of NCG 100 mg. This allowed for early re-institution of feeds at 14 h, followed by metabolic stabilization and recovery. Due to the effectiveness of NCG in this case, the use of the more invasive conventional ammonia-lowering therapeutic options could be avoided.
Muscle Strength and Fitness in Pediatric Obesity: a Systematic Review from the European Childhood Obesity Group
Authors: Thivel David , Ring-Dimitriou Susanne , Weghuber Daniel , Frelut Marie-Laure , O'Malley Grace
Published: February 2016

The increasing prevalence of paediatric obesity and related metabolic complications has been mainly associated with lower aerobic fitness while less is known regarding potential musculoskeletal impairments. The purpose of the present systematic review was to report the evidence regarding muscular fitness in children and adolescents with obesity. A systematic article search was conducted between November 2014 and June 2015 using MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL psycINFO, SPORTDiscus and SocINDEX. Articles published in English and reporting results on muscle strength and muscular fitness in children and adolescents aged 6 to 18 years were eligible. Of 548 identified titles, 36 studies were included for analyses. While laboratory-based studies described higher absolute muscular fitness in youth with obesity compared with their lean peers, these differences are negated when corrected for body weight and lean mass, then supporting field-based investigations. All interventional studies reviewed led to improved muscular fitness in youth with obesity. Children and adolescents with obesity display impaired muscular fitness compared to healthy-weight peers, which seems mainly due to factors such as excessive body weight and increased inertia of the body. Our analysis also points out the lack of information regarding the role of age, maturation or sex in the current literature and reveals that routinely used field tests analysing overall daily muscular fitness in children with obesity provide satisfactory results when compared to laboratory-based data.
Predicting Personality Disorder Functioning Styles by the Five-Factor Nonverbal Personality Questionnaire in Healthy Volunteers and Personality Disorder Patients
Authors: Gao Qianqian , Ma Guorong , Zhu Qisha , Fan Hongying , Wang Wei
Published: February 2016

Background: Detecting personality disorders in the illiterate population is a challenge, but nonverbal tools measuring personality traits such as the Five-Factor Nonverbal Personality Questionnaire (FFNPQ) might help. We hypothesized that FFNPQ traits are associated with personality disorder functioning styles in a predictable way, especially in a sample of personality disorder patients. Methods: We therefore invited 106 personality disorder patients and 205 healthy volunteers to answer the FFNPQ and the Parker Personality Measure (PERM) which measures 11 personality disorder functioning styles. Results: Patients scored significantly higher on the FFNPQ neuroticism and conscientiousness traits and all 11 PERM styles. In both groups, the 5 FFNPQ traits displayed extensive associations with the 11 PERM styles, respectively, and the associations were more specific in patients. Associations between neuroticism, extraversion and agreeableness traits and most PERM styles were less exclusive, but conscientiousness was associated with antisocial (-) and obsessive-compulsive styles, and openness to experience with schizotypal and dependent (-) styles. Conclusions: Our study has demonstrated correlations between FFNPQ traits and PERM styles, and implies the nonverbal measure of personality traits is capable of aiding the diagnoses of personality disorders in the illiterate population. Enlarging sample size and including the illiterate might make for more stable results.
Inborn Errors of Metabolism That Cause Sudden Infant Death: A Systematic Review with Implications for Population Neonatal Screening Programmes
Authors: van Rijt Willemijn J. , Koolhaas Geneviève D. , Bekhof Jolita , Heiner Fokkema M. Rebecca , de Koning Tom J. , Visser Gepke , Schielen Peter C.J.I. , van Spronsen Francjan J. , Derks Terry G.J.
Published: February 2016

Background: Many inborn errors of metabolism (IEMs) may present as sudden infant death (SID). Nowadays, increasing numbers of patients with IEMs are identified pre-symptomatically by population neonatal bloodspot screening (NBS) programmes. However, some patients escape early detection because their symptoms and signs start before NBS test results become available, they even die even before the sample for NBS has been drawn or because there are IEMs which are not included in the NBS programmes. Objectives and Methods: This was a comprehensive systematic literature review to identify all IEMs associated with SID, including their treatability and detectability by NBS technologies. Reye syndrome (RS) was included in the search strategy because this condition can be considered a possible pre-stage of SID in a continuum of aggravating symptoms. Results: 43 IEMs were identified that were associated with SID and/or RS. Of these, (1) 26 can already present during the neonatal period, (2) treatment is available for at least 32, and (3) 26 can currently be identified by the analysis of acylcarnitines and amino acids in dried bloodspots (DBS). Conclusion: We advocate an extensive analysis of amino acids and acylcarnitines in blood/plasma/DBS and urine for all children who died suddenly and/or unexpectedly, including neonates in whom blood had not yet been drawn for the routine NBS test. The application of combined metabolite screening and DNA-sequencing techniques would facilitate fast identification and maximal diagnostic yield. This is important information for clinicians who need to maintain clinical awareness and decision-makers to improve population NBS programmes.
A Case Report of Preoperative, Intraoperative, and Postoperative Anterior Chamber Shallowing Resulting from Different Mechanisms
Authors: Mori Yujiro , Ikeda Yoshifumi , Sano Ichiya , Fujihara Etsuko , Tanito Masaki
Published: February 2016

A 54-year-old woman with an epiretinal membrane in her left eye accompanied by a shallow anterior chamber due to primary angle closure glaucoma underwent vitrectomy and cataract surgery. During the cataract surgery, immediately after the ultrasonic tip had been removed from the anterior chamber, anterior chamber flattening occurred. An intraoperative fundus examination showed the development of acute intraoperative choroidal effusion. Postoperatively, the anterior chamber remained shallow even after the choroidal detachment had subsided; capsular bag distension seen by ultrasound biomicroscopy suggested the development of early postoperative capsular block syndrome. After neodymium:yttrium-aluminium-garnet laser capsulotomy, the anterior chamber deepened. Depending on the perioperative period, the mechanism of a flat anterior chamber can change, and understanding the underlying mechanisms is required for appropriate treatment.
Long-Lasting Stent Placement in an Elderly Advanced Ovarian Cancer Patient
Authors: Corvino Raffaella , De Iuliis Francesca , D'Aniello Debora , Cefalì Katia , Ferraro Emanuela , Lamazza Antonietta , Lanza Rosina , Scarpa Susanna
Published: February 2016

Background: Ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, most often co-occurring with malignant bowel obstruction. Affected patients are generally in poor physical condition, and it is important to manage the bowel obstruction to improve quality of life. Case Report: We present the case of a 75-year-old woman who underwent a left hemicolectomy for an ovarian carcinoma with bowel obstruction. 3 years after hemicolectomy, the patient presented with an extrinsic anastomotic substenosis. A self-expanding metal stent was placed which remained in place for 7 years, rendering other invasive surgical treatments unnecessary. Conclusion: The placement of a long-lasting stent is an important option in patients with bowel obstruction subsequent to recurrent ovarian cancer, since this provides a viable alternative to surgery and increases patients' quality of life.
Association Between a Healthy Heart Score and the Development of Clinical Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Women
Authors: Sotos-Prieto Mercedes , Mattei Josiemer , Hu Frank B. , Chomistek Andrea K. , Rimm Eric B. , Willett Walter C. , Eliassen A. Heather , Chiuve Stephanie E.
Published: February 2016

Background—

The prevailing efforts for cardiovascular disease (CVD) prevention focused on treatment of common CVD risk factors rather than primordial prevention of risk factors through health behaviors. The previously validated Healthy Heart Score effectively predicted the 20-year risk of CVD in midadulthood; however, it is unknown whether this risk score is associated with clinically relevant CVD risk factors.

Methods and Results—

We analyzed the association between the Healthy Heart Score and the incidence of clinical CVD risk factors, including diabetes mellitus, hypertension, and hypercholesterolemia among 69 505 US women in the Nurses’ Health Study II (NHSII; 1991–2011). The Healthy Heart Score estimates the 20-year CVD risk based on 9 lifestyle factors; thus, a higher score reflected a higher predictive CVD risk. During 20 years, we documented 3275 incident cases of diabetes mellitus, 17 420 of hypertension, and 24 385 of hypercholesterolemia. Women with higher predicted CVD risk based on the Healthy Heart Score (highest quintile versus lowest quintile) had significantly greater risk of each clinical risk factor individually (hazard ratios: 18.1 [95% confidence interval, 14.4–22.7] for diabetes mellitus, 5.10 [4.66–5.57] for hypertension, and 2.57 [2.40–2.75] for hypercholesterolemia). The hazard ratio for developing the high-CVD profile was 52.5 (33.6–82.1). These associations were most pronounced among women who were younger, were nonsmokers, or had optimal weight.

Conclusions—

An absolute 20-year risk of CVD, estimated by the Healthy Heart Score, was strongly associated with the development of CVD clinically relevant risk factors. This risk score may serve as the first step for CVD risk assessment in primordial prevention.
Effects of Different Dietary Interventions on Blood Pressure
Authors: Gay Hawkins C. , Rao Shreya G. , Vaccarino Viola , Ali Mohammed K.
Published: February 2016

Previous studies have shown beneficial effects of individual dietary approaches for blood pressure (BP) control, but their relative effectiveness is not well established. We performed a systematic review of published dietary pattern interventions and estimated the aggregate BP effects through meta-analysis. PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify studies published between January 1, 1990 and March 1, 2015. Studies meeting specific inclusion and exclusion criteria were selected. Data were pooled using random effects meta-analysis models. Twenty-four trials with 23 858 total participants were included. The overall pooled net effect of dietary intervention on systolic BP and diastolic BP was −3.07 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, −3.85 to −2.30) and −1.81 mm Hg (95% confidence interval, −2.24 to −1.38), respectively. The Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension diet had the largest net effect (systolic BP, −7.62 mm Hg [95% confidence interval, −9.95 to −5.29] and diastolic BP, −4.22 mm Hg [95% confidence interval, −5.87 to −2.57]). Low-sodium; low-sodium, high-potassium; low-sodium, low-calorie; and low-calorie diets also led to significant systolic and diastolic BP reductions, whereas Mediterranean diet participants experienced a significant incremental reduction in diastolic but not systolic BP. Subgroup analysis also showed important variations in effectiveness based on duration, size, and participant demographics. In conclusion, dietary modifications are associated with clinically meaningful, though variable, reductions in BP. Some diets are more effective than others and under different circumstances, which has important implications from both clinical and public health perspectives.