bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implementation of a Fuzzy TSK Controller for a Flexible Joint Robot
Authors: Akbari M. E. , Badamchizadeh M. A. , Poor M. A.
Published: October 2012

This paper proposes a fuzzy TSK controller to control a rotary flexible joint manipulator. The flexibility of joint is performed by means of a solenoid nonlinear spring, which is connected between actuator output and joint input in a bilateral connection form to transfer the produced torque; also the smooth model of frictions is used for modeling the dynamics of flexible manipulator. The effect of coulomb friction and also gearbox backlashes is decreased by a pulsation signal as an extra voltage that is added to the control voltage of actuator. Actuator dynamics is modeled by consideration of saturation mode of armature current. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed controller has an ability to control flexible joint manipulator with a good performance.
Influence of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T, A1298C, and G80A Polymorphisms on the Survival of Pediatric Patients with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: de Deus Dayse Maria Vasconcelos , de Lima Elker Lene Santos , Seabra Silva Rafaela Maria , Leite Edinalva Pereira , Cartaxo Muniz Maria Tereza
Published: October 2012

The influence of genic polymorphisms involved in metabolism of chemotherapeutic agents as the methotrexate (MTX) has been studied mainly in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) of childhood. Advances in treatment may be attributed to identification of prognostic factors added to chemotherapy protocol. The aim of this study was to analyze the association of the C677T, A1298C, and G80A polymorphisms on MTHFR gene and on the overall survival of pediatric patients (n=126)
with lymphoblastic leukemia treated with MTX according to the Brazilian protocol in 187 months. The C677T and G80A polymorphisms were genotyped by PCR-RFLP and A1298C polymorphism by allele-specific PCR. We observed that ALL patients presented rate (dead/alive) of 0.36 for the 677CC genotype, corresponding also to lower overall survival (P=0.0013);
on the other hand, the 677TT genotype showed a better survival (98%). Thus, we believe that patients with 80AA genotype presented a small reduction in MTX plasma level, suggesting that ALL children, carrying the 80AA genotype, showed a high toxicity to MTX (P<0.0001).
Cholesterol: Its Regulation and Role in Central Nervous System Disorders
Authors: Orth Matthias , Bellosta Stefano
Published: October 2012

Cholesterol is a major constituent of the human brain, and the brain is the most cholesterol-rich organ. Numerous lipoprotein receptors and apolipoproteins are expressed in the brain. Cholesterol is tightly regulated between the major brain cells and is essential for normal brain development. The metabolism of brain cholesterol differs markedly from that of other tissues. Brain cholesterol is primarily derived byde novosynthesis and the blood brain barrier prevents the uptake of lipoprotein cholesterol from the circulation. Defects in cholesterol metabolism lead to structural and functional central nervous system diseases such as Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome, Niemann-Pick type C disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. These diseases affect different metabolic pathways (cholesterol biosynthesis, lipid transport and lipoprotein assembly, apolipoproteins, lipoprotein receptors, and signaling molecules). We review the metabolic pathways of cholesterol in the CNS and its cell-specific and microdomain-specific interaction with other pathways such as the amyloid precursor protein and discuss potential treatment strategies as well as the effects of the widespread use of LDL cholesterol-lowering drugs on brain functions.
An Energy-Efficient MAC Protocol Employing Dynamic Threshold for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Kim Kyung Tae , Youn Hee Yong
Published: October 2012

Energy efficiency is a critical issue for sensor network since the network lifetime depends on efficient management of the energy resource of sensor nodes. Particularly, designing energy efficient MAC protocol has a significant influence on the performance of wireless sensor network with regards to the energy. The existing MAC protocols developed for sensor network try to avoid energy waste during idle listening time by controlling the duty cycle of the transmission period. Since the traffic conditions are diverse, they may not always display improvements in energy consumption. In this paper we propose a new energy efficient MAC protocol called dynamic threshold MAC (DT-MAC), which employs a dynamic threshold for the buffer of each sensor node to maximize the energy efficiency regardless of specific network traffic condition. Here the packets are stored in the buffer, and then transmitted when the number of packets in the buffer exceeds the threshold dynamically decided according to the number of hops of the node from the source in the path of packet forwarding. The simulation results using OMNnet++ show that DT-MAC enables significant improvement in energy consumption compared to the existing MAC protocols. The proposed DT-MAC protocol also reduces the number of transmissions of control packets.
Megapneumonia Coinfection:pneumococcus, Mycoplasma pneumoniae,andMetapneumovirus
Authors: Hon Kam Lun , Ip Margaret , Chu Winnie Chiu Wing , Wong William
Published: October 2012

We report a young girl who died ofStreptococcus pneumoniae19A pneumonia, septic shock, and hemolytic uremic syndrome despite prior pneumococcal vaccination, appropriate antibiotics, and aggressive intensive care support. Serotype 19A is not covered by the 7- or 10-valent pneumococcal vaccines.Mycoplasma pneumoniaeandmetapneumoviruswere simultaneously detected by PCR in the nasopharyngeal and tracheal aspirates. Thepneumococcusis penicillin sensitive. Although infections with each of these pathogens alone are typically mild, this case highlights that co-infection with the triple respiratory pathogens possibly contributed to the fatal outcome of this child. Also, the new policy in Hong Kong to use PCV13 may help prevent further cases of serotype 19A infections.
Choosing between GLP-1 Receptor Agonists and DPP-4 Inhibitors: A Pharmacological Perspective
Authors: Brown Dominique Xavier , Evans Marc
Published: October 2012

In recent years the incretin therapies have provided a new treatment option for patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The incretin therapies focus on the increasing levels of the two incretin hormones, glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) and glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP). This results in increased glucose dependent insulin synthesis and release. GLP-1 receptor agonists such as liraglutide and exenatide exert an intrinsic biological effect on GLP-1 receptors directly stimulating the release of insulin from pancreatic beta cells. DPP-4 inhibitors such as sitagliptin and linagliptin prevent the inactivation of endogenous GLP-1 and GIP through competitive inhibition of the DPP-4 enzyme. Both incretin therapies have good safety and tolerability profiles and interact minimally with a number of medications commonly prescribed in T2DM. This paper focuses on the pharmacological basis by which the incretin therapies function and how this knowledge can inform and benefit clinical decisions. Each individual incretin agent has benefits and pitfalls relating to aspects such as glycaemic and nonglycaemic efficacy, safety and tolerability, ease of administration, and cost. Overall, a personalized medicine approach has been found to be favourable, tailoring the incretin agent to benefit and suit patient's needs such as renal impairment (RI) or hepatic impairment (HI).
The Role of KRAS Mutational Analysis to Determine the Site of Origin of Metastatic Carcinoma to the Lung: A Case Report
Authors: Alkhasawneh Ahmed N. , Dong Hui-Jia , Liu Chen , Allegra Carmen , Allan Robert W.
Published: October 2012

Metastatic carcinomas involving the lung are a common specimen encountered in surgical pathology. These metastases may have different morphologic, and architectural patterns and may mimic primary pulmonary adenocarcinoma, especially the intra-alveolar (lepidic) pattern of spread which may simulate a primary pulmonary bronchioloalveolar carcinoma (adenocarcinoma in situ). We present the case of a metastatic pancreatic adenocarcinoma that morphologically mimicked bronchioloalveolar carcinoma of the lung in that the tumor had an exclusive intra-alveolar pattern of spread and had an immunophenotype that was noninformative as to the site of origin (cytokeratin 7+, cytokeratin 20−, TTF-1−). In this case, we used KRAS gene mutation analysis to support that the lung carcinoma represented a metastatic pancreatic carcinoma as they both possessed identical codon 12 KRAS mutations. We show that this method may be a useful way to prove site of origin of metastatic carcinoma—particularly if standard morphologic or immunohistochemical analysis is not definitive.
The Modified Rational Jacobi Elliptic Functions Method for Nonlinear Differential Difference Equations
Authors: Gepreel Khaled A. , Nofal Taher A. , Al-Thobaiti Ali A.
Published: October 2012

We modified the rational Jacobi elliptic functions method to construct some new exact solutions for nonlinear differential difference equations in mathematical physics via the lattice equation, the discrete nonlinear Schrodinger equation with a saturable nonlinearity, the discrete nonlinear Klein‐Gordon equation, and the quintic discrete nonlinear Schrodinger equation. Some new types of the Jacobi elliptic solutions are obtained for some nonlinear differential difference equations in mathematical physics. The proposed method is more effective and powerful to obtain the exact solutions for nonlinear differential difference equations.
Parkinson’s Disease and Autophagy
Authors: Sánchez-Pérez Ana María , Claramonte-Clausell Berta , Sánchez-Andrés Juan Vicente , Herrero María Trinidad
Published: October 2012

It is generally accepted that a correlation between neurodegenerative disease and protein aggregation in the brain exists; however, a causal relationship has not been elucidated. In neurons, failure of autophagy may result in the accumulation of aggregate-prone proteins and subsequent neurodegeneration. Thus, pharmacological induction of autophagy to enhance the clearance of intracytoplasmic aggregate-prone proteins has been considered as a therapeutic strategy to ameliorate pathology in cell and animal models of neurodegenerative disorders. However, autophagy has also been found to be a factor in the onset of these diseases, which raises the question of whether autophagy induction is an effective therapeutic strategy, or, on the contrary, can result in cell death. In this paper, we will first describe the autophagic machinery, and we will consider the literature to discuss the neuroprotective effects of autophagy.
An Atypical Presentation of Brucellosis in a Patient with Isolated Thrombocytopenia Complicated with Upper Gastrointestinal Tract Bleeding
Authors: Baldane Suleyman , Sivgin Serdar , Alkan Tahsin Sezgin , Kurnaz Fatih , Pala Cigdem , Keklik Muzaffer , Karaman Ahmet , Kaynar Leylagul
Published: October 2012

A 59-year-old female patient was admitted to the emergency service with complaints of hematemesis and melena for the last few days. In laboratory tests, the platelet count was found to be6×109/L. Intravenous or oral corticosteroid treatment was thought to be given for ITP but disclaimed due to upper GIS bleeding. On the 5th day of treatment,Brucella melitensiswas isolated from blood culture before the results of Wright tube agglutination tests were reported positive as 1 : 80. On the second day of the anti-brucellosis treatment, the thrombocyte count was raised from 6000/mm3to 110000/mm3, and on the 3rd day to 225000/mm3.
Cardioprotective Effects of 20(S)-Ginsenoside Rh2 against Doxorubicin-Induced CardiotoxicityIn VitroandIn Vivo
Authors: Wang Hongbo , Yu Pengfei , Gou Haitao , Zhang Jianqiao , Zhu Mei , Wang Zhen-hua , Tian Jing-wei , Jiang Yong-tao , Fu Feng-hua
Published: October 2012

Doxorubicin (DOX) is considered as one of the best antineoplastic agents. However, its clinical use is restricted by its associated cardiotoxicity, which is mediated by the production of reactive oxygen species. In this study, 20(S)-ginsenoside Rh2 (Rh2) was explored whether it had protective effects against DOX-induced cardiotoxicity.In vitrostudy on H9C2 cell line, as well asin vivoinvestigation in one mouse and one rat model of DOX-induced cardiomyopathy, was carried out. The results showed that pretreatment with Rh2 significantly increased the viability of DOX-injured H9C2 cells. In the mouse model, Rh2 could suppress the DOX-induced release of the cardiac enzymes into serum and improved the occurred pathological changes through ameliorating the decreased antioxidant biomolecules and the cumulated lipid peroxidation malondialdehyde in heart tissues. In the rat model, Rh2 could attenuate the change of ECG resulting from DOX administration. Furthermore, Rh2 enhanced the antitumor activity of DOX in A549 cells. Our findings thus demonstrated that Rh2 pretreatment could effectively alleviate heart injury induced by DOX, and Rh2 might act as a novel protective agent in the clinical usefulness of DOX.
Characterization and Some Insights into the Reaction Chemistry of Polymethylsilsesquioxane or Methyl Silicone Resins
Authors: Itoh Maki , Oka Fukuyo , Suto Michitaka , Cook Simon D. , Auner Norbert
Published: October 2012

Structural characterization of a polymethylsilsesquioxane (PMSQ) and a DT-type methyl silicone resin (MeDT) has been carried out by various instrumental analyses including GPC, NMR, gas chromatography, and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Although the PMSQ had aMwaround 5000, the resin contained a significant amount of low molecular weight species consisting of T2[MeSi(OH)O2/2] and T3[MeSiO3/2] units, ranging from to including many isomers. One isomer of was isolated of which structure was determined as a cage structure. The species are supposed to consist mainly of cyclotetra- and cyclopentasiloxanes, but presence of strained rings such as cyclotrisiloxane rings also was suggested. In MeDT, species in which the T2units in the molecules from PMSQ is replaced with D2[Me2SiO2/2] were found, for example, , suggesting that general silicone resins consist of similar structures as silsesquioxanes. The Mark-Houwink exponent for these methyl resins was~0.3, indicating the molecular shape to be compact. Investigation on the formation chemistry of the cubic octamers indicates that siloxane bond rearrangement is an important mechanism in the molecule build-up process.
Pantoprazole before Endoscopy in Patients with Gastroduodenal Ulcer Bleeding: Does the duration of Infusion and Ulcer Location Influence the Effects?
Authors: Rácz Istvan , Szalai Milan , Dancs Nora , Kárász Tibor , Szabó Andrea , Csöndes Mihaly , Horváth Zoltan
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of preemptive pantoprazole infusion on early endoscopic findings in patients with acute ulcer bleeding. Records of 333 patients admitted with acute ulcer bleeding were analyzed. Ulcer bleeders were given either 80 mg bolus of pantoprazole followed by continuous infusion of 8 mg per hour or saline infusion until endoscopy. In 93 patients saline infusion whereas in 240 patients bolus plus infusion of pantoprazole was administrated with mean (±SD) durations of5.45±12.9hours and6.9±13.2hours, respectively (P=0.29). Actively bleeding ulcers were detected in 46/240 (19.2%) of cases in the pantoprazole group as compared with 23/93 (24.7%) in the saline infusion group (P=0.26). Different durations of pantoprazole infusion (0–4 hours,>4 hours, and>6 hours) had no significant effect on endoscopic and clinical outcome parameters in duodenal ulcer bleeders. Gastric ulcer bleeders on pantoprazole infusion longer than 4 and 6 hours before endoscopy had actively bleeding ulcers in 4.3% and 5% compared to the 19.5% active bleeding rate in the saline group (P=0.02andP=0.04). Preemptive infusion of high-dose pantoprazole longer than 4 hours before endoscopy decreased the ratio of active bleeding only in gastric but not in duodenal ulcer patients.
A Case of Hepatic Angiomyolipoma Which Was Misdiagnosed as Hepatocellular Carcinoma in a Hepatitis B Carrier
Authors: Hwang Jin Yeon , Lee Sung Wook , Baek Yang Hyun , Kim Jong Han , Kim Ha Yeon , Bae Suck Hyang , Cho Jin Han , Kwon Hee Jin , Jeong Jin Sook , Roh Young Hoon , Han Sang Young
Published: October 2012

We report a rare case of resected hepatic AML, which was misdiagnosed as hepatocellular carcinoma in a chronic hepatitis B carrier. A 45-year-old woman who was a carrier of hepatitis B virus infection presented with a hepatic tumor. Her serum alpha-fetoprotein level was normal. Ultrasonography revealed a round and well-circumscribed echogenic hepatic tumor measuring 2.5 cm in the segment VI. On contrast-enhanced computed tomography, a hypervascular tumor was observed in the arterial phase and washing-out of the contrast medium in the portal phase and delayed phase. On MR T1-weighted in-phase images, the mass showed low signal intensity, and on out-of-phase images, the mass showed signal drop and dark signal intensity. On MR T2-weighted images, the mass showed high signal intensity. The mass demonstrated high signal intensity on arterial phase after contrast injection, suggestive of hepatocellular carcinoma. The patient underwent hepatic wedge resection and histopathological diagnosis was a hepatic angiomyolipoma.
Some New Insights into Trade Potential between the EU and Its Mediterranean Partners
Authors: Péridy Nicolas
Published: October 2012

This paper provides new insights into the calculation of trade potential between the EU and its Southern and Eastern Mediterranean partners (MPs). It is based on an econometric specification which takes into account some new explanatory variables which are not included simultaneously in the previous studies. These include trade costs (tariffs, NTBs, and logistics costs), factor movement (migration and FDI), as well as governance. In addition, specific estimators are implemented in order to account for zero trade flows, endogeneity and dynamics. The main conclusion of this study is that contrary to some results found in previous studies, MPs have reached their export potential with the EU. It is also shown that there is no specificity of the MP-EU trade potential in comparison with the other main PTAs (NAFTA, MERCOSUR, and ASEAN) which have also reached their trade potential. These results have strong policy implications.
Direct Health Care Costs of Treating Seasonal Affective Disorder: A Comparison of Light Therapy and Fluoxetine
Authors: Cheung Amy , Dewa Carolyn , Michalak Erin E. , Browne Gina , Levitt Anthony , Levitan Robert D. , Enns Murray W. , Morehouse Rachel L. , Lam Raymond W.
Published: October 2012

Objective.To compare the direct mental health care costs between individuals with Seasonal Affective Disorder randomized to either fluoxetine or light therapy.Methods.Data from the CANSAD study was used. CANSAD was an 8-week multicentre double-blind study that randomized participants to receive either light therapy plus placebo capsules or placebo light therapy plus fluoxetine. Participants were aged 18–65 who met criteria for major depressive episodes with a seasonal (winter) pattern. Mental health care service use was collected for each subject for 4 weeks prior to the start of treatment and for 4 weeks prior to the end of treatment. All direct mental health care services costs were analysed, including inpatient and outpatient services, investigations, and medications.Results.The difference in mental health costs was significantly higher after treatment for the light therapy group compared to the medication group—a difference of $111.25 (z=−3.77,P=0.000). However, when the amortized cost of the light box was taken into the account, the groups were switched with the fluoxetine group incurring greater direct care costs—a difference of $75.41 (z=−2.635,P=0.008).Conclusion.The results suggest that individuals treated with medication had significantly less mental health care cost after-treatment compared to those treated with light therapy.
Sciatic Hernia Mimicking Perianal Abscess in a Cirrhotic Patient
Authors: Andraus Wellington , Haddad Luciana Bertocco de Paiva , Ferro Oscar Cavalcante , D'Albuquerque Luiz Augusto Carneiro
Published: October 2012

Abdominal hernias are very frequent in cirrhotic patients with ascites. The hernias usually present as umbilical, inguinal, incisional, or femoral. However, these patients can also develop uncommon hernias such as pelvic hernias because of pelvic floor weakness and high abdominal pressure due to ascites. We present the first case of a cirrhotic patient with ascites that developed a giant sciatic hernia mimicking a perianal abscess.
High-Mobility Group Box-1 and Endothelial Cell Angiogenic Markers in the Vitreous from Patients with Proliferative Diabetic Retinopathy
Authors: Abu El-Asrar Ahmed M. , Nawaz Mohd Imtiaz , Kangave Dustan , Abouammoh Marwan , Mohammad Ghulam
Published: October 2012

The aim of this study was to measure the levels of high-mobility group box-1 (HMGB1) in the vitreous fluid from patients with proliferative diabetic retinopathy (PDR) and to correlate its levels with clinical disease activity and the levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), the angiogenic cytokine granulocyte-colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), the endothelial cell angiogenic markers soluble vascular endothelial-cadherin (sVE-cadherin), and soluble endoglin (sEng). Vitreous samples from 36 PDR and 21 nondiabetic patients were studied by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. HMGB1, VEGF, sVE-cadherin, and sEng levels were significantly higher in PDR patients than in nondiabetics (P=0.008; <0.001; <0.001; 0.003, resp.). G-CSF was detected in only 3 PDR samples. In the whole study group, there was significant positive correlation between the levels of HMGB1, and sVE-cadherin (r=0.378,P=0.007). In PDR patients, there was significant negative correlation between the levels of sVE-cadherin and sEng (r=−0.517,P=0.0005). Exploratory regression analysis identified significant associations between active PDR and high levels of VEGF (odds ratio = 76.4; 95% confidence interval = 6.32–923) and high levels of sEng (odds ratio = 6.01; 95% confidence interval = 1.25–29.0). Our findings suggest that HMGB1, VEGF, sVE-cadherin and sEng regulate the angiogenesis in PDR.
A Mucinous Cystic Neoplasm of the Mesocolon Showing Features of Malignancy
Authors: Mistry Kiki , Penna Marta , Dindyal Shiva , Mukhtar Hasan
Published: October 2012

Mucinous cystic neoplasms are rare tumours of uncertain histogenesis. They arise from the ovaries, pancreas, and other intra-abdominal sites but more unusually from the mesocolon. They can present with abdominal pain, distension, or a palpable mass but are commonly an incidental finding. We describe the case of a 48-year-old woman who was found to have an incidental left pelvic cyst on computed tomography. Subsequent laparoscopic excision and histological analysis demonstrated the cyst to be a borderline malignant mucinous tumour arising from the mesocolon. Mucinous tumours should be considered in the differential diagnosis of all intra-abdominal cysts and treatment should be by surgical complete excision.
Nilpotent Elements of Residuated Lattices
Authors: Ghorbani Shokoofeh , Torkzadeh Lida
Published: October 2012

Some properties of the nilpotent elements of a residuated lattice are studied. The concept of cyclic residuated lattices is introduced, and some related results are obtained. The relation between finite cyclic residuated lattices and simple MV-algebras is obtained. Finally, the notion of nilpotent elements is used to define the radical of a residuated lattice.
Combined Stimulation with the Tumor Necrosis Factorαand the Epidermal Growth Factor Promotes the Proliferation of Hepatocytes in Rat Liver Cultured Slices
Authors: Finot Francis , Masson Régis , Desmots Fabienne , Ribault Catherine , Bichet Nicole , Vericat Joan A. , Lafouge Patricia , Guguen-Guillouzo Christiane , Loyer Pascal
Published: October 2012

The culture liver slices are mainly used to investigate drug metabolism and xenobiotic-mediated liver injuries while apoptosis and proliferation remain unexplored in this culture model. Here, we show a transient increase in LDH release and caspase activities indicating an ischemic injury during the slicing procedure. Then, caspase activities decrease and remain low in cultured slices demonstrating a low level of apoptosis. The slicing procedure is also associated with the G0/G1 transition of hepatocytes demonstrated by the activation of stress and proliferation signalling pathways including the ERK1/2 and JNK1/2/3 MAPKinases and the transient upregulation of c-fos. The cells further progress up to mid-G1 phase as indicated by the sequential induction of c-myc and p53 mRNA levels after the slicing procedure and at 24 h of culture, respectively. The stimulation by epidermal growth factor induces the ERK1/2 phosphorylation but fails to activate expression of late G1 and S phase markers such as cyclin D1 and Cdk1 indicating that hepatocytes are arrested in mid-G1 phase of the cell cycle. However, we found that combined stimulation by the proinflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factorαand the epidermal growth factor promotes the commitment to DNA replication as observedin vivoduring the liver regeneration.
A Novel PSO Model Based on Simulating Human Social Communication Behavior
Authors: Liu Yanmin , Niu Ben
Published: October 2012

In order to solve the complicated multimodal problems, this paper presents a variant of particle swarm optimizer (PSO) based on the simulation of the human social communication behavior (HSCPSO). In HSCPSO, each particle initially joins a default number of social circles (SC) that consist of some particles, and its learning exemplars include three parts, namely, its own best experience, the experience of the best performing particle in all SCs, and the experiences of the particles of all SCs it is a member of. The learning strategy takes full advantage of the excellent information of each particle to improve the diversity of the swarm to discourage premature convergence. To weight the effects of the particles on the SCs, the worst performing particles will join more SCs to learn from other particles and the best performing particles will leave SCs to reduce their strong influence on other members. Additionally, to insure the effectiveness of solving multimodal problems, the novel parallel hybrid mutation is proposed to improve the particle’s ability to escape from the local optima. Experiments were conducted on a set of classical benchmark functions, and the results demonstrate the good performance of HSCPSO in escaping from the local optima and solving the complex multimodal problems compared with the other PSO variants.
Sexual Health and Men Who Have Sex with Men in Vietnam: An Integrated Approach to Preventive Health Care
Authors: Giang Le Minh , Viet Vu Duc , Hao Bui Thi Minh
Published: October 2012

Background. While HIV infection among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Vietnam has received increasing attention, most studies focus on HIV knowledge and established risk factors such as injection drug use. This paper proposes to address HIV risk among MSM from an integrated approach to preventive care that takes into account syndemic conditions such as substance use, mental health, and stigma, the latter of which prevents MSM from accessing health services.Method. Current studies related to MSM in Vietnam from 2000 onwards, gathered from peer-reviewed as well as non-peer-reviewed sources, were examined.Results. HIV and STI prevalence among MSM varied significantly by location, and yet HIV prevalence has increased significantly over the past few years. Most studies have focused on sexual risk behaviors, paying little attention to the broad spectrum of sexual health, including noninjecting drug use, heavy alcohol consumption, high rates of mental health distress and anxiety, and stigma.Conclusion. Future research and interventions targeting MSM in Vietnam should address their vulnerability to HIV from an integrated approach that pays attention to both sexual health and syndemic conditions.
Adaptive Fault Detection for Complex Dynamic Processes Based on JIT Updated Data Set
Authors: Li Jinna , Li Yuan , Yu Haibin , Xie Yanhong , Zhang Cheng
Published: October 2012

A novel fault detection technique is proposed to explicitly account for the nonlinear, dynamic, and multimodal problems existed in the practical and complex dynamic processes. Just‐in‐time (JIT) detection method and k‐nearest neighbor (KNN) rule‐based statistical process control (SPC) approach are integrated to construct a flexible and adaptive detection scheme for the control process with nonlinear, dynamic, and multimodal cases. Mahalanobis distance, representing the correlation among samples, is used to simplify and update the raw data set, which is the first merit in this paper. Based on it, the control limit is computed in terms of both KNN rule and SPC method, such that we can identify whether the current data is normal or not by online approach. Noted that the control limit obtained changes with updating database such that an adaptive fault detection technique that can effectively eliminate the impact of data drift and shift on the performance of detection process is obtained, which is the second merit in this paper. The efficiency of the developed method is demonstrated by the numerical examples and an industrial case.
Nicorandil-Induced Hyperkalemia in a Uremic Patient
Authors: Lee Hung-Hao , Hsu Po-Chao , Lin Tsung-Hsien , Lai Wen-Ter , Sheu Sheng-Hsiung
Published: October 2012

Nicorandil is an antianginal agent with nitrate-like and ATP-sensitive potassium channel activator properties. After activation of potassium channels, potassium ions are expelled out of the cells, which lead to membrane hyperpolarization, closure of voltage-gated calcium channels, and finally vasodilation. We present a uremic case suffering from repeated junctional bradycardia, especially before hemodialysis. After detailed evaluation, nicorandil was suspected to be the cause of hyperkalemia which induced bradycardia. This case reminds us that physicians should be aware of this potential complication in patients receiving ATP-sensitive potassium channel activator.
Hexa Helix: Modified Quad Helix Appliance to Correct Anterior and Posterior Crossbites in Mixed Dentition
Authors: Yaseen Syed Mohammed , Acharya Ravindranath
Published: October 2012

Among the commonly encountered dental irregularities which constitute developing malocclusion is the crossbite. During primary and mixed dentition phase, the crossbite is seen very often and if left untreated during these phases then a simple problem may be transformed into a more complex problem. Different techniques have been used to correct anterior and posterior crossbites in mixed dentition. This case report describes the use of hexa helix, a modified version of quad helix for the management of anterior crossbite and bilateral posterior crossbite in early mixed dentition. Correction was achieved within 15 weeks with no damage to the tooth or the marginal periodontal tissue. The procedure is a simple and effective method for treating anterior and bilateral posterior crossbites simultaneously.
Is There Successful Aging for Nonagenarians? The Vitality 90+ Study
Authors: Nosraty Lily , Sarkeala Tytti , Hervonen Antti , Jylhä Marja
Published: October 2012

Objectives. This study was designed (1) to estimate the prevalence of successful aging among nonagenarians based on six different models and (2) to investigate whether successful aging is associated with socio-demographic factors.Methods. A mailed survey was conducted with people aged 90+ in Tampere in 2010. Responses were received from 1283 people. The prevalence of successful aging was measured by six multidimensional models including physical, social, and psychological components. Age, sex, marital status, level of education, and place of living were studied as factors associated with successful aging.Results. The prevalence of successful aging varied from 1.6% to 18.3% depending on the model applied. Successful aging was more prevalent in men, and also more prevalent among community-living people. In most models, successful aging was also associated with younger age, being married, and a higher level of education.Discussion. Models which emphasize the absence of disease and activity as criteria for successful aging may not be the most relevant and applicable in oldest old. Instead, preference should be given to models that focus more on autonomy, adaptation and sense of purpose. Age-sensitive approaches would help us better understand the potential of successful aging among individuals who already have success in longevity.
Design of a Multiobjective Reverse Logistics Network Considering the Cost and Service Level
Authors: Li Shuang , Wang Nengmin , He Zhengwen , Che Ada , Ma Yungao
Published: October 2012

Reverse logistics, which is induced by various forms of used products and materials, has received growing attention throughout this decade. In a highly competitive environment, the service level is an important criterion for reverse logistics network design. However, most previous studies about product returns only focused on the total cost of the reverse logistics and neglected the service level. To help a manufacturer of electronic products provide quality postsale repair service for their consumer, this paper proposes a multiobjective reverse logistics network optimisation model that considers the objectives of the cost, the total tardiness of the cycle time, and the coverage of customer zones. The Nondominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA‐II) is employed for solving this multiobjective optimisation model. To evaluate the performance of NSGA‐II, a genetic algorithm based on weighted sum approach and Multiobjective Simulated Annealing (MOSA) are also applied. The performance of these three heuristic algorithms is compared using numerical examples. The computational results show that NSGA‐II outperforms MOSA and the genetic algorithm based on weighted sum approach. Furthermore, the key parameters of the model are tested, and some conclusions are drawn.
A Regularization of the Backward Problem for Nonlinear Parabolic Equation with Time-Dependent Coefficient
Authors: Quan Pham Hoang , Triet Le Minh , Trong Dang Duc
Published: October 2012

We study the backward problem with time-dependent coefficient which is a severely ill-posed problem. We regularize this problem by combining quasi-boundary value method and quasi-reversibility method and then obtain sharp error estimate between the exact solution and the regularized solution. A numerical experiment is given in order to illustrate our results.
A Study of Mechanical Optimization Strategy for Cardiac Resynchronization Therapy Based on an Electromechanical Model
Authors: Dou Jianhong , Xia Ling , Deng Dongdong , Zang Yunliang , Shou Guofa , Bustos Cesar , Tu Weifeng , Liu Feng , Crozier Stuart
Published: October 2012

An optimal electrode position and interventricular (VV) delay in cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) improves its success. However, the precise quantification of cardiac dyssynchrony and magnitude of resynchronization achieved by biventricular (BiV) pacing therapy with mechanical optimization strategies based on computational models remain scant. The maximum circumferential uniformity ratio estimate (CURE) was used here as mechanical optimization index, which was automatically computed for 6 different electrode positions based on a three-dimensional electromechanical canine model of heart failure (HF) caused by complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB). VV delay timing was adjusted accordingly. The heart excitation propagation was simulated with a monodomain model. The quantification of mechanical intra- and interventricular asynchrony was then investigated with eight-node isoparametric element method. The results showed that (i) the optimal pacing location from maximal CURE of 0.8516 was found at the left ventricle (LV) lateral wall near the equator site with a VV delay of 60 ms, in accordance with current clinical studies, (ii) compared with electrical optimization strategy ofERMS, the LV synchronous contraction and the hemodynamics improved more with mechanical optimization strategy. Therefore, measures of mechanical dyssynchrony improve the sensitivity and specificity of predicting responders more. The model was subject to validation in future clinical studies.
Long-Term Remission of Primary Bone Marrow Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma Treated with High-Dose Chemotherapy Rescued byIn VivoRituximab-Purged Autologous Stem Cells
Authors: Kazama Hiroshi , Teramura Masanao , Yoshinaga Kentaro , Masuda Akihiro , Motoji Toshiko
Published: October 2012

Primary bone marrow diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) is a rare type of extranodal lymphoma with poor prognosis. Here, we report a case of primary bone marrow DLBCL successfully treated with high-dose chemotherapy and rescued byin vivorituximab-purged autologous stem cells. A 39-year-old woman visited our hospital because of anemia. Bone marrow examination revealed a large B-cell lymphoma invasion. An18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography scan revealed disseminated bone marrow uptake without evidence of dissemination at other sites. These findings led to a diagnosis of primary bone marrow DLBCL. Our patient underwent R-CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone) chemotherapy and achieved complete remission. Subsequently, she received high-dose chemotherapy with anin vivorituximab-purged autologous stem cell transplant. Seven years have passed since the transplantation, and she remains in remission. This suggests that transplantation of anin vivorituximab-purged autograft is a promising strategy for primary bone marrow DLBCL.
Epidural Brain Metastases in a Patient with Early Onset Pancreatic Cancer: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Mirrakhimov Aibek E. , Khan Farah N.
Published: October 2012

We present a case of early onset pancreatic cancer related extra-axial brain metastases. A 46-year-old Caucasian non-Jewish nonobese male with a history of PC diagnosed 3 months ago with metastases to the liver, omentum, malignant ascites, and a history of a pulmonary embolism was admitted to the hospital because of a new onset headache, nausea, and vomiting which started 2 days prior to the encounter. Brain MRI was ordered, which showed acute bihemispheric subdural hematomas and left hemispheric extra-axial heterogeneously enhancing lesions consisting with metastatic disease. The patient was started on ondansentron, metoclopramide, and dexamethasone. The cranial irradiation was started, and the patient’s headache and nausea significantly improved. There are only 9 published reports of extra-axial brain metastases related to the pancreatic cancer, whereas our paper is the first such case reported on a patient with epidural metastases and early onset pancreatic cancer.
Synthesis of New Benzofuran‐2‐Carboxylic Acid Derivatives
Authors: Kowalewska M. , Kwiecień H. , Śmist M. , Wrześniewska A.
Published: October 2012

Novel ethyl ester and methylamide of 5‐[bis(2‐chloroethyl)amino]‐7‐methoxybenzofuran‐2‐carboxylic acid as well as (2‐hydroxy‐1,1‐dimethylethyl)amides of 5‐bromo‐ and 5,7‐dichlorobenzofuran‐2‐carboxylic acid were synthesized and characterized.
Quantum Mechanical Study on the Structure and Vibrational Spectra of Cyclobutanone and 1,2-Cyclobutanedione
Authors: Pandey Anoop kumar , Dwivedi Apoorva , Misra Neeraj
Published: October 2012

For 1,2-cyclobutanedione and cyclobutanone, we have carried out a comparative study of different methods like B3LYP, LSDA, and B3PW91 of DFT using 6-31G (d, p) basis set and MP2 method. On comparing these methods we find that B3PW91 method is closer to the experimental one. So by using B3PW91 method, we have made a comparative study of their structures, normal mode analysis, and other properties of the two derivatives of cyclobutane. The molecular HOMO, LUMO composition, their respective energy gaps, and MESP contours/surfaces have also been drawn to explain the activity of 1,2-cyclobutanedione and cyclobutanone.
Bispecific and Trispecific Killer Cell Engagers Directly Activate Human NK Cells through CD16 Signaling and Induce Cytotoxicity and Cytokine Production
Authors: Gleason Michelle K. , Verneris Michael R. , Todhunter Deborah A. , Zhang Bin , McCullar Valarie , Zhou Sophia X. , Panoskaltsis-Mortari Angela , Weiner Louis M. , Vallera Daniel A. , Miller Jeffrey S.
Published: October 2012

This study evaluates the mechanism by which bispecific and trispecific killer cell engagers (BiKEs and TriKEs) act to trigger human natural killer (NK) cell effector function and investigates their ability to induce NK cell cytokine and chemokine production against human B-cell leukemia. We examined the ability of BiKEs and TriKEs to trigger NK cell activation through direct CD16 signaling, measuring intracellular Ca2+ mobilization, secretion of lytic granules, induction of target cell apoptosis, and production of cytokine and chemokines in response to the Raji cell line and primary leukemia targets. Resting NK cells triggered by the recombinant reagents led to intracellular Ca2+ mobilization through direct CD16 signaling. Coculture of reagent-treated resting NK cells with Raji targets resulted in significant increases in NK cell degranulation and target cell death. BiKEs and TriKEs effectively mediated NK cytotoxicity of Raji targets at high and low effector-to-target ratios and maintained functional stability after 24 and 48 hours of culture in human serum. NK cell production of IFN-γ, TNF-α, granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF), interleukin (IL)-8, macrophage inflammatory protein (MIP)-1α, and regulated and normal T cell expressed and secreted (RANTES) was differentially induced in the presence of recombinant reagents and Raji targets. Moreover, significant increases in NK cell degranulation and enhancement of IFN-γ production against primary acute lymphoblastic leukemia and chronic lymphocytic leukemia targets were induced with reagent treatment of resting NK cells. In conclusion, BiKEs and TriKEs directly trigger NK cell activation through CD16, significantly increasing NK cell cytolytic activity and cytokine production against tumor targets, showing their therapeutic potential for enhancing NK cell immunotherapies for leukemias and lymphomas. Mol Cancer Ther; 11(12); 2674–84. ©2012 AACR.
Cholesterol Efflux
Authors: Tall Alan R. , Yvan-Charvet Laurent , Westerterp Marit , Murphy Andrew J.
Published: October 2012

Monocytosis and neutrophilia are well-established risk factors for atherosclerosis and seem to play a causative role in lesion development. Studies in mice with defects in cholesterol efflux pathways have identified novel roles for the ATP-binding cassette transporter A1, ATP-binding cassette transporter G1, and apolipoprotein E in suppressing hematopoietic stem cell proliferation, mobilization, and the production of monocytes and neutrophils in the bone marrow. In addition, stem cell mobilization to the spleen initiates extramedullary hematopoiesis, which acts as a monocytic reservoir. Increased monocyte and neutrophil levels drive atherogenesis and its complications. Increasing high-density lipoprotein levels and cholesterol efflux can reverse excessive myelopoiesis and stem cell mobilization, suggesting a novel antiatherogenic effect of some forms of high-density lipoprotein elevation. After a myocardial infarction, splenic Ly-6C
hi
monocyte populations are sustained by a second wave of stem cell mobilization from the bone marrow and continue to enter atheroma, accelerating atherogenesis. Because activation of cholesterol efflux pathways can inhibit stem cell proliferation, mobilization, and monocyte production, this may provide a rationale for boosting high-density lipoprotein levels after a myocardial infarction to prevent reocclusion.
Rates and Predictors of 30-Day Readmission Among Commercially Insured and Medicaid-Enrolled Patients Hospitalized With Systolic Heart Failure
Authors: Allen Larry A. , Tomic Karen E. Smoyer , Smith David M. , Wilson Kathleen L. , Agodoa Irene
Published: October 2012

Background—

Heart failure (HF) readmission rates are primarily derived from Medicare enrollees. Given increasing public scrutiny of HF readmissions, understanding the rate and predictors in populations covered by other payers is also important, particularly among patients with systolic dysfunction, for whom most HF-specific therapies are targeted.

Methods and Results—

MarketScan Commercial and Medicaid Administrative Claims Databases were used to identify all first hospitalizations with an International Classification of Diseases-9 discharge diagnosis code for HF (primary position) and systolic HF (any position) between January 1, 2005, and June 30, 2008. Among 4584 unique systolic HF index admissions (mean age 55 years), 30-day crude readmission rates were higher for Medicaid than commercially insured patients: all-cause 17.4% versus 11.8%; HF-related 6.7% versus 4.0%, respectively. In unadjusted analysis, higher comorbidity and prior healthcare utilization predicted readmission; age, sex, and plan type did not. After adjustment for case mix, the odds of all-cause and HF-related readmission were 32% and 68% higher, respectively, among Medicaid than commercially insured patients (
P
<0.02 for both). No significant differences in readmission rates were seen for managed care versus fee-for-service or capitated versus noncapitated plan types.

Conclusions—

Compared with commonly cited Medicare HF readmission rates of 20% to 25%, Medicaid patients with systolic HF had lower 30-day readmission rates, and commercially insured patients had even lower rates. Even after adjustment for case mix, Medicaid patients were more likely to be readmitted than commercially insured patients, suggesting that more attention should be focused on readmissions among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.
Seasonal Changes in Solar Radiation and Relative Humidity in Europe in Response to Global Warming*
Authors: Ruosteenoja Kimmo , Räisänen Petri
Published: October 2012

Future seasonal changes in surface incident solar radiation and relative humidity (RH) over Europe and adjacent ocean areas were assessed based on phase 3 of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP3) model ensemble. Under the A1B scenario, by 2070–99, summertime solar radiation is projected to increase by 5%–10% in central and southern Europe. In winter, radiation decreases in most of northern and eastern Europe by 5%–15%. RH drops in summer in the southern European inland by 8%–12%, whereas in winter a small increase of 2%–3% is projected for northeastern Europe. In spring, the change is an intermediate between those in the extreme seasons, while in autumn the patterns resemble summer. Over the northern Atlantic Ocean, RH increases in all seasons by 1%–2%. The intermodel agreement on the sign of all these shifts is good, and the patterns recur in the responses to the A2 and B1 scenarios. Substantial changes are already simulated to occur before the midcentury, for example, in summer RH decreases by more than 5% in the inner Balkan Peninsula. Projected changes in these two variables agree well and are also mainly consistent with precipitation responses both in the multimodel mean and in individual models. According to all indicators, southern European summers become more arid, while winters, in the north particularly, become moister and darker. The increasing radiation and declining RH exacerbate summertime drought in southern Europe, whereas excessive humidity in the north may, for example, inflict moisture damages in constructions.