bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new chernetid pseudoscorpion from the Miocene Chiapas – Amber Lagerstätte, Mexico
Authors: Riquelme Francisco , Piedra-Jiménez Dulce F. , Córdova-Tabares Víctor , Luna-Castro Bibiano
Published: September 2014

Mayachernes maatiatus, a new genus and species of pseudoscorpion of the family Chernetidae (Arachnida: Pseudoscorpionida), is described from the Miocene Chiapas – Amber Lagerstätte, south of Mexico. This new fossil species represents an adult male specimen with hard–soft tissues preserved in great detail. It differs from all other living chernetids by a combination of diagnostic characters. Anatomical data were collected using high-resolution microscopy with regular to infrared-reflected light. Mayachernes maatiatus is the first newly described fossil species of pseudoscorpion from the Chiapas amber. This taxon also adds to knowledge of the Chernetidae diversity in the southernmost part of North America at the Neogene.
Cytotype differences in radial increment provide novel insight into aspen reproductive ecology and stand dynamics
Authors: DeRose R. Justin , Mock Karen E. , Long James N.
Published: September 2014

High rates of triploidy have recently been described in quaking aspen (Populus tremuloides Michx.) of the Intermountain West, raising questions about the contributions of triploidy to stand persistence and dynamics. In this study, we investigated cytotype differences between diploid and triploid aspen clones using dendrochronological techniques. We used tree-ring data collected from stems within an aspen stand near Fish Lake, Utah, to test for differences in stem age, population structure, growth, and response to climate. This stand contains the well-known Pando clone, which is purported to be the largest organism documented on earth. Our results show that triploid aspen stems grew more rapidly than diploids, and that this difference was most pronounced early in stand development. Growth response to climate varied little between triploids and diploids, where wide rings were associated with cool, moist years, and narrow rings were associated with above-average growing season temperatures. Stand development processes and inherent genetic differences are mechanisms possibly controlling the observed differences in aspen ring width between triploids and diploids. Regardless of the mechanism, the results have specific management implications. Conventional regeneration methods involving coppicing and the associated intermediate treatments will promote asexually reproducing triploids, leading to static or reduced genetic diversity. Enhanced genetic diversity will be favored by management actions that explicitly account for (i) the potential existence of multiple cytotypes within a stand and (ii) the observed differences in growth rates between diploid and triploid individuals.
How could haloalkaliphilic microorganisms contribute to biotechnology?
Authors: Zhao Baisuo , Yan Yanchun , Chen Shulin
Published: September 2014

Haloalkaliphiles are microorganisms requiring Na+concentrations of at least 0.5 mol·L–1and an alkaline pH of 9 for optimal growth. Their unique features enable them to make significant contributions to a wide array of biotechnological applications. Organic compatible solutes produced by haloalkaliphiles, such as ectoine and glycine betaine, are correlated with osmoadaptation and may serve as stabilizers of intracellular proteins, salt antagonists, osmoprotectants, and dermatological moisturizers. Haloalkaliphiles are an important source of secondary metabolites like rhodopsin, polyhydroxyalkanoates, and exopolysaccharides that play essential roles in biogeocycling organic compounds. These microorganisms also can secrete unique exoenzymes, including proteases, amylases, and cellulases, that are highly active and stable in extreme haloalkaline conditions and can be used for the production of laundry detergent. Furthermore, the unique metabolic pathways of haloalkaliphiles can be applied in the biodegradation and (or) biotransformation of a broad range of toxic industrial pollutants and heavy metals, in wastewater treatment, and in the biofuel industry.
Cloning and expression of delta-1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase in Escherichia coli DH5α improves phosphate solubilization
Authors: Gong Mingbo , Tang Chaoxi , Zhu Changxiong
Published: September 2014

A primary cDNA library of Penicillium oxalicum I1 was constructed using the switching mechanism at the 5′ end of the RNA transcript (SMART) technique. A total of 106 clones showed halos in tricalcium phosphate (TCP) medium, and clone I-40 showed clear halos. The full-length cDNA of clone I-40 was 1355 bp with a complete open reading frame (ORF) of 1032 bp, encoding a protein of 343 amino acids. Multiple alignment analysis revealed a high degree of homology between the ORF of clone I-40 and delta-1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate dehydrogenase (P5CDH) of other fungi. The ORF expression vector was constructed and transformed into Escherichia coli DH5α. The transformant (ORF-1) with the P5CDH gene secreted organic acid in medium with TCP as the sole source of phosphate. Acetic acid and α-ketoglutarate were secreted in 4 and 24 h, respectively. ORF-1 decreased the pH of the medium from 6.62 to 3.45 and released soluble phosphate at 0.172 mg·mL−1 in 28 h. Expression of the P. oxalicum I1 p5cdh gene in E. coli could enhance organic acid secretion and phosphate-solubilizing ability.
Comparison of virulence properties of Pseudomonas aeruginosa exposed to water and grown in rich broth
Authors: Mendis Nilmini , Lin Ying Ran , Faucher Sebastien P.
Published: September 2014

Pseudomonas aeruginosa is an opportunistic pathogen that can infect susceptible patients suffering from cystic fibrosis, immunosuppression, and severe burns. Nosocomial- and community-acquired infection is likely due to contact with water sources contaminated with P. aeruginosa. Most of what is known about the virulence properties of P. aeruginosa was derived from studies using fairly rich broths, which do not represent conditions found in water, such as low nutrient concentrations. Here, we compare biofilm production, invasion of epithelial cells, cytotoxicity, and pyocyanin production of P. aeruginosa in water with P. aeruginosa grown in rich broth. Since tap water is variable, we used a defined water medium, Fraquil, to ensure reproducibility of the results. We found that P. aeruginosa does not readily form biofilm in Fraquil. Pseudomonas aeruginosa is equally able to attach to and invade epithelial cells but is more cytotoxic after incubation in water for 30 days than when it is grown in rich broth. Moreover, P. aeruginosa produces less pyocyanin when exposed to water. Our results show that P. aeruginosa seems to have different properties when exposed to water than when grown in rich broth.
Beneficial role of tamoxifen in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction
Authors: Rayabarapu Nihar , Patel Bhoomika M.
Published: September 2014

ER-α and ER-β agonist 17β-estradiol is reported to attenuate cardiac hypertrophy. Tamoxifen is a selective estrogen receptor modulator. Hence, the objective of this study was to investigate the effects of tamoxifen in myocardial infarction. For this, tamoxifen was administered to Sprague–Dawley rats for 1–14 days, and isoproterenol (ISO) (100 mg·(kg body mass)−1·day−1) was administered subcutaneously on the 13th and 14th days of the study in order to induce myocardial infarction, after which, various biochemical, cardiac, and morphometric parameters were evaluated. ISO produced significant dyslipidemia, hypertension, bradycardia, oxidative stress, and an increase in serum cardiac markers. Treatment with tamoxifen significantly controlled dyslipidemia, hypertension, bradycardia, oxidative stress, and reduced serum cardiac markers. The ISO control rats exhibited significant increases in the infarct size of the left ventricle (LV), LV cavity area, cardiac and LV hypertrophic indices, LV-wall thickness, cardiomyocyte diameter, and area. Treatment with tamoxifen significantly reduced infarction as well as hypertrophic and morphometric parameters. ISO also produced significant increases in the LV collagen level, decreases in Na+K+ATPase activity, and a reduction in the rate of pressure development and decay, which were prevented by tamoxifen treatment. The protective effect of tamoxifen on myocardial infarct was further confirmed by histopathological examination. Our data thus suggest that tamoxifen exerts beneficial effects in ISO-induced myocardial infarction.
On Post-Buckling Behavior of Edge Cracked Functionally Graded Beams Under Axial Loads
Authors: Akbaş Şeref Doğuşcan
Published: September 2014

This paper presents the post-buckling analysis of an edge cracked cantilever beam composed of functionally graded material (FGM) subjected to axial compressive loads by using the total Lagrangian Timoshenko beam element approximation. Material properties of the beam change in the height direction according to the exponential distribution. The cracked beam is modeled as an assembly of two sub-beams connected through a massless elastic rotational spring. For beams subjected to compression loads, the load rise causes compressible forces and therefore buckling and post-buckling phenomena occurs. It is known that post-buckling problems are geometrically nonlinear problems. The highly nonlinear problem considered herein is solved incrementally by using the finite element method in conjunction with the Newton–Raphson method, by which the full geometric nonlinearity is considered. There is no restriction on the magnitudes of deflections and rotations in contradistinction to the von Karman strain displacement relations of the beam. In the study, the effects of the location and depth of the crack, and different material distributions on the post-buckling behavior of the FGM beam are investigated in detail.
Imperfection Sensitivity Analysis of Double Domes Free Form Space Structures
Authors: Mousavi Mehdi Abbasi , Abedi Karim , Chenaghlou Mohamadreza
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates the effects of applying different buckling modes obtained by linearized eigenvalue buckling analysis as the initial imperfection for double domes free form space structures. Nonlinear elastic–plastic analysis of rigidly jointed single layer double domes are carried out using the finite element method. Having verified the finite element modeling, several different collapse analyses have been undertaken in order to examine the stability behavior of these structures. By using the approximate-perturbed method, the results of the analyses show that in free form double domes, the lowest buckling modes could not be considered as the effective modes to change the bifurcation equilibrium path into the limit equilibrium one. Therefore, the generalized conformable imperfection mode method has been suggested in the present study in order to apply geometric imperfections in free form double domes. Also, one step method has been suggested in order to eliminate 60% of buckling modes, which are nonsensitive, before applying the approximate-perturbed method.
Design and Testing of a Self-Adaptive Prosthetic Finger with a Compliant Driving Mechanism
Authors: Sheng Xinjun , Hua Lei , Zhang Dingguo , Zhu Xiangyang
Published: September 2014

In this paper, a novel underactuated prosthetic finger with a compliant driving mechanism is proposed. The underactuated finger is based on linkage mechanism and spring elements within the compliant driving mechanism. The proposed finger mechanism is able to obtain human-like operations. The feasibility of the mechanism is verified through suitable kinematic and static analysis. The structure parameters and the coefficient of the springs are calculated according to the requirements of human-like operations. Finally, we experimentally validate the reasonability of design results and demonstrate that the finger grasps objects in diverse ways.
Optimal controllability for scalar conservation laws with convex flux
Authors: Adimurthi  , Ghoshal Shyam Sundar , Gowda G. D. Veerappa
Published: September 2014

The optimal control problem for Burgers equation was first considered by Castro, Palacios and Zuazua. They proved the existence of a solution and proposed a numerical scheme to capture an optimal solution via the method of "alternate decent direction". In this paper, we introduce a new strategy for the optimal control problem for scalar conservation laws with convex flux. We propose a new cost function and by the Lax–Oleinik explicit formula for entropy solutions, the nonlinear problem is converted to a linear problem. Exploiting this property, we prove the existence of an optimal solution and, by a backward construction, we give an algorithm to capture an optimal solution.
A counterexample to well-posedness of entropy solutions to the compressible Euler system
Authors: Chiodaroli Elisabetta
Published: September 2014

We consider entropy solutions to the Cauchy problem for the isentropic compressible Euler equations in the spatially periodic case. In more than one space dimension, the methods developed by De Lellis–Székelyhidi enable us to show here failure of uniqueness on a finite time-interval for entropy solutions starting from any continuously differentiable initial density and suitably constructed bounded initial linear momenta.
Harvesting Model for Fishery Resource with Reserve Area and Bird Predator
Authors: Sharma Amit , Gupta Bhanu
Published: September 2014

The aim of this paper is to study the dynamics of fishery resource with reserve area in the presence of bird predator. The aquatic region under investigation is divided into two zones: one free for fishing and another restricted for any kind of fishery. The criteria of biological and bionomic equilibrium of system are established. The points of local stability, global stability, and instability are obtained for the proposed model. An optimal harvesting policy is established using Pontryagin’s maximum principle. At last the theoretical results obtained are illustrated with the help of numerical simulation.
Supersonic Shear Wave Imaging to Assess Arterial Nonlinear Behavior and Anisotropy: Proof of Principle via Ex Vivo Testing of the Horse Aorta
Authors: Shcherbakova D. A. , Papadacci C. , Swillens A. , Caenen A. , De Bock S. , Saey V. , Chiers K. , Tanter M. , Greenwald S. E. , Pernot M. , Segers P.
Published: September 2014

Supersonic shear wave imaging (SSI) is a noninvasive, ultrasound-based technique to quantify the mechanical properties of bulk tissues by measuring the propagation speed of shear waves (SW) induced in the tissue with an ultrasound transducer. The technique has been successfully validated in liver and breast (tumor) diagnostics and is potentially useful for the assessment of the stiffness of arteries. However, SW propagation in arteries is subjected to different wave phenomena potentially affecting the measurement accuracy. Therefore, we assessed SSI in a less complex ex vivo setup, that is, a thick-walled and rectangular slab of an excised equine aorta. Dynamic uniaxial mechanical testing was performed during the SSI measurements, to dispose of a reference material assessment. An ultrasound probe was fixed in an angle position controller with respect to the tissue to investigate the effect of arterial anisotropy on SSI results. Results indicated that SSI was able to pick up stretch-induced stiffening of the aorta. SW velocities were significantly higher along the specimen's circumferential direction than in the axial direction, consistent with the circumferential orientation of collagen fibers. Hence, we established a first step in studying SW propagation in anisotropic tissues to gain more insight into the feasibility of SSI-based measurements in arteries.
Objects, Worlds, and Students: Virtual Interaction in Education
Authors: Christopoulos Athanasios , Conrad Marc , Shukla Mitul
Published: September 2014

The main aim of this study is to form a complete taxonomy of the types of interactions that relate to the use of a virtual world for engaging learning experiences, when blended and hybrid learning methods are to be used. In order to investigate this topic more accurately and effectively, we distinguish four dimensions of interactions based on the context in which these occur, and the involved parts: in-world and in-class, user-to-user and user-to-world interactions. In order to conduct investigation into this topic and form a view of the interactions as clear as possible, we observed a cohort of 15 undergraduate Computer Science students while using an OpenSim-based institutionally hosted virtual world. Moreover, we ran a survey where 50 students were asked to indicate their opinion and feelings about their in-world experience. The results of our study highlight that educators and instructors need to plan their in-world learning activities very carefully and with a focus on interactions if engaging activities are what they want to offer their students. Additionally, it seems that student interactions with the content of the virtual world and the in-class student-to-student interactions, have stronger impact on students’ engagement when hybrid methods are used.
On Study of Immune Response to Tumor Cells in Prey-Predator System
Authors: Kaur Gurpreet , Ahmad Naseem
Published: September 2014

This paper aims to develop the mathematical model that explores the immune response to a tumor system as a prey-predator system. A deterministic model defining the dynamics of tumor growth progression and regression has been analyzed. Our analysis indicates the tumor recurring and dormancy on the cellular level in combination with resting and hunting cells. The model considered in the present study is a generalization of El-Gohary (2008) by introducing the Michaelis-Menten function. This function describes the stimulation process of the resting cells by the tumor cells in the presence of tumor specific antigens. Local and global stability analysis have been performed along with the numerical simulation to support our findings.
Prevalence of Risk Factors for the Metabolic Syndrome in the Middle Income Caribbean Nation of St. Lucia
Authors: Cherry Colleen O’Brien , Serieux Elizabeth , Didier Martin , Nuttal Mary Elizabeth , Schuster Richard J.
Published: September 2014

The objective of this research was to measure the presence of metabolic syndrome risk factors in a sample population in the middle income Caribbean nation of St. Lucia and to identify the demographic and behavioral factors of metabolic syndrome among the study participants. Interviews and anthropometric measures were conducted with 499 St. Lucians of ages 18–99. Descriptive statistics were used for the analysis. Fifty-six percent of females and 18 percent of males had a waist size equal to or above the indicator for the metabolic syndrome. Behavioral risk factors such as sedentary lifestyle, smoking, and alcohol consumption varied by gender. Thirty-six percent of women and 22% of men reported a sedentary lifestyle and 43% of women and 65% of men reported any alcohol consumption. More research should be done to determine the cultural norms and gender differences associated with modifiable risk behaviors in St. Lucia.
Anaemia among Female Undergraduates Residing in the Hostels of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
Authors: Chathuranga Gayashan , Balasuriya Thushara , Perera Rasika
Published: September 2014

Anaemia is a major public health problem that has affected around 25% of the world’s population. An analytical cross-sectional study was performed on 313 female undergraduates residing in hostels of University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka, during year 2011. Objective of this study was to determine prevalence and contributing factors to anaemia among the study population. Haemoglobin concentration was assayed using cyanomethaemoglobin method. A pretested self-administered questionnaire was used to retrieve information regarding dietary habits and personal factors of participants. Descriptive statistical methods, chi-square test, and independent samplet-test were used to analyze data. Of the 302 females, 17.5% (n=53) had mild anaemia and 7.9% (n=24) had moderate anaemia. Severely anaemic individuals were not observed. Participants’ dietary habits and personal factors were not significantly associated with prevalence of anaemia (whether a participant is a vegetarian or not (P=0.525), drinking tea within one hour of a meal (P=0.775), frequency of consumption of red meat, fish, and eggs (P=0.499), antihelminthic treatment within past year (P=0.792), and menorrhagia (P=0.560)). Anaemia in the study population is below the average for Sri Lankan data. Diet and selected medical conditions were not a causative factor for anaemia in this population.
Association between Dietary Patterns and Chronic Diseases among Chinese Adults in Baoji
Authors: Wang Honglin , Deng Feng , Qu Meng , Yang Peirong , Yang Biao
Published: September 2014

Objective. This study was aimed to identify the dietary patterns among Chinese adults in Baoji and explore the association between these dietary patterns and chronic diseases.Methods. With multistage stratified random sampling and semiquantitative food frequency questionnaire, the prevalence of chronic disease and dietary intake was investigated in 2013. We used factor analysis to establish dietary patterns.Results. A total of 5020 participants over 15 years old were included in this study. Five dietary patterns were identified in Baoji named as protein, balanced, beans, prudent, and traditional patterns. There are many protective effects with protein, balanced, and beans dietary patterns on chronic diseases.Conclusions. We should encourage Baoji city residents to choose protein, balanced, and beans dietary patterns and abandon prudent and traditional patterns.
A Reconciliation of Packed Column Permeability Data: Deconvoluting the Ergun Papers
Authors: Quinn Hubert M.
Published: September 2014

In his 1952 publication, Ergun made the following proclamation: “Data of the present investigation and those presented earlier have been treated accordingly, and the coefficients k1 and k2 have been determined by the method of least squares. The values obtained are k1 = 150 and, k2 = 1.75, representing 640 experiments.” In this paper, we demonstrate that because his experimental methodology was flawed, the corrected values, which his experimental results would otherwise have established for these coefficients, are significantly higher. This is, in part, because Ergun’s reporting of his measured data was ambiguous with respect to the embedded coefficients k1 and k2. In addition, this ambiguity made it difficult for any subsequent researcher to figure out the true meaning of his empirical results which, in turn, resulted in his choice of the values for these coefficients being accepted by default in the scientific community.
Corneal Biomechanical Changes after Crosslinking for Progressive Keratoconus with the Corneal Visualization Scheimpflug Technology
Authors: Steinberg Johannes , Katz Toam , Mousli Aiham , Frings Andreas , Casagrande Maria K. , Druchkiv Vasyl , Richard Gisbert , Linke Stephan J.
Published: September 2014

Purpose.To evaluate the effect of corneal crosslinking in progressive keratoconus by applying in vivo corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology.Design.Longitudinal retrospective study.Subjects and Controls.Seventeen eyes of patients treated with corneal crosslinking for progressive keratoconus.Methods.Corneal visualization Scheimpflug technology analyses (research software version 6.07r08) of subjects with progressive keratoconus before and 3 months after corneal crosslinking (CXL) were reviewed retrospectively.t-test (for normal distribution) and Wilcoxon matched-pairs test (if not normally distributed) were used to test for statistically significant differences between pre- and post-CXL analyses.Results.We demonstrated statistically significant differences for the intraocular pressure (median: +3 mmHg,P =0.004), the central corneal pachymetry (pachy; mean: −35 µm,P<0.001), the timespan between the air impulse release and the first applanation of the cornea (A1time; median: +0.12 ms,P<0.05), and the timespan between the air impulse release and the second applanation of the cornea (A2time; median: −37 ms,P<0.05).Conclusions.With the A1time and the A2time, we identified two parameters that demonstrated a statistically significant improvement of the biomechanical properties of the cornea after CXL. Despite the known initial decrease of the pachymetry after CXL, none of the analyzed parameters indicated a progression of the keratoconus.
A Preliminary Study of the Suitability of Archival Bone Marrow and Peripheral Blood Smears for Diagnosis of CML Using FISH
Authors: Charwudzi Alice , Olayemi Edeghonghon E. , Ekem Ivy , Olopade Olufunmilayo , Coyle Mariann , Benneh Amma Anima , Allotey Emmanuel Alote
Published: September 2014

Background.FISH is a molecular cytogenetic technique enabling rapid detection of genetic abnormalities. Facilities that can run fresh/wet samples for molecular diagnosis and monitoring of neoplastic disorders are not readily available in Ghana and other neighbouring countries. This study aims to demonstrate that interphase FISH can successfully be applied to archival methanol-fixed bone marrow and peripheral blood smear slides transported to a more equipped facility for molecular diagnosis of CML.Methods.Interphase FISH was performed on 22 archival methanol-fixed marrow (BM) and 3 peripheral blood (PB) smear slides obtained at diagnosis. The BM smears included 20 CML and 2 CMML cases diagnosed by morphology; the 3 PB smears were from 3 of the CML patients at the time of diagnosis. Six cases had knownBCR-ABLfusion results at diagnosis by RQ-PCR. Full blood count reports at diagnosis were also retrieved.Result.19 (95%) of the CML marrow smears demonstrated theBCR-ABLtranslocation. There was a significant correlation between theBCR-ABLtranscript detected at diagnosis by RQ-PCR and that retrospectively detected by FISH from the aged BM smears at diagnosis (r=0.870;P=0.035).Conclusion.Archival methanol-fixed marrow and peripheral blood smears can be used to detect theBCR-ABLtranscript for CML diagnosis.
Low-Grade Malignant Triton Tumor of the Neck: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Omar Taissir , Raslan Hanaa , El Sheikh Sahar , Rizq Moataz , Draz Awatef
Published: September 2014

Rhabdomyoblastic differentiation in a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is termed malignant triton tumor (MTT), a rare neoplasm that poses a diagnostic dilemma in the differential diagnosis of neck masses and portends poor prognosis. We report a sporadic case of MTT of the neck in a 23-year-old female. We present the pathological findings. Immunohistochemistry confirmed the neurogenic origin with S-100 expression and the rhabdomyoblastic differentiation with desmin and vimentin positivity. Radical surgical excision was done. After 4 years there were no signs of recurrence or distant metastasis. The clinical, microscopic, and long-term follow-up of this case are consistent with those of a low-grade malignancy.
Comparison and Supervised Learning of Segmentation Methods Dedicated to Specular Microscope Images of Corneal Endothelium
Authors: Gavet Yann , Pinoli Jean-Charles
Published: September 2014

The cornea is the front of the eye. Its inner cell layer, called the endothelium, is important because it is closely related to the light transparency of the cornea. An in vivo observation of this layer is performed by using specular microscopy to evaluate the health of the cells: a high spatial density will result in a good transparency. Thus, the main criterion required by ophthalmologists is the cell density of the cornea endothelium, mainly obtained by an image segmentation process. Different methods can perform the image segmentation of these cells, and the three most performing methods are studied here. The question for the ophthalmologists is how to choose the best algorithm and to obtain the best possible results with it. This paper presents a methodology to compare these algorithms together. Moreover, by the way of geometric dissimilarity criteria, the algorithms are tuned up, and the best parameter values are thus proposed to the expert ophthalmologists.
Cosmetic Outcome Assessment following Breast-Conserving Therapy: A Comparison between BCCT.core Software and Panel Evaluation
Authors: Haloua Max Hendrik , Krekel Nicole Marianna Alexandra , Jacobs Gerrit Johannes Albertus , Zonderhuis Barbara , Bouman Mark-Bram , Buncamper Marlon Eugène , Niessen Franciscus Bernardus , Winters Henri Adolf Hubert , Terwee Caroline , Meijer Sybren , van den Tol Monique Petrousjka
Published: September 2014

Purpose. Over recent decades, no consensus has yet been reached on the optimal approach to cosmetic evaluation following breast-conserving therapy (BCT). The present study compared the strengths and weaknesses of the BCCT.core software with a 10-member panel from various backgrounds.Methods. Digital photographs of 109 consecutive patients after BCT were evaluated for 7 items by a panel consisting of 2 breast surgeons, 2 residents, 2 laypersons, and 4 plastic surgeons. All photographs were objectively evaluated using the BCCT.core software (version 20), and an overall cosmetic outcome score was reached using a four-point Likert scale.Results. Based on the mean BCCT.core software score, 41% of all patients had fair or poor overall cosmetic results (10% poor), compared with 51% (14% poor) obtained with panel evaluation. Mean overall BCCT.core score and mean overall panel score substantially agreed (weighted kappa: 0.68). By contrast, analysis of the evaluation of scar tissue revealed large discrepancies between the BCCT.core software and the panel. The analysis of subgroups formed from different combinations of the panel members still showed substantial agreement with the BCCT.core software (range 0.64–0.69), independent of personal background.Conclusions. Although the analysis of scar tissue by the software shows room for improvement, the BCCT.core represents a valid and efficient alternative to panel evaluation.
Design of Second-Order Sliding Mode Guidance Law Based on the Nonhomogeneous Disturbance Observer
Authors: Zhou Huibo , Song Shenmin , Song Junhong , Niu Jing
Published: September 2014

Considering the guidance problem of relative motion of missile target without the dynamic characteristics of missile autopilot in the interception planar, non-homogeneous disturbance observer is applied for finite-time estimation with respect to the target maneuvering affecting the guidance performance. Two guidance laws with finite-time convergence are designed by using a fast power rate reaching law and the prescribed sliding variable dynamics. The nonsingular terminal sliding mode surface is selected to improve dynamic characteristics of missile autopilot. Furthermore, the finite-time guidance law with dynamic delay characteristics is designed for the target maneuvering through adopting variable structure dynamic compensation. The simulation results demonstrate that, for different target maneuvering, the proposed guidance laws can restrain the sliding mode chattering problem effectively and make the missile hit the maneuvering target quickly and accurately with condition of corresponding assumptions.
Piriformis Syndrome in Fibromyalgia: Clinical Diagnosis and Successful Treatment
Authors: Siddiq Md Abu Bakar , Khasru Moshiur Rahman , Rasker Johannes J.
Published: September 2014

Piriformis syndrome is an underdiagnosed extraspinal association of sciatica. Patients usually complain of deep seated gluteal pain. In severe cases the clinical features of piriformis syndrome are primarily due to spasm of the piriformis muscle and irritation of the underlying sciatic nerve but this mysterious clinical scenario is also described in lumbar spinal canal stenosis, leg length discrepancy, piriformis myofascial pain syndrome, following vaginal delivery, and anomalous piriformis muscle or sciatic nerve. In this paper, we describe piriformis and fibromyalgia syndrome in a 30-year-old young lady, an often missed diagnosis. We also focus on management of the piriformis syndrome.
Dynamical Downscaling of Climate Change Impacts on Wind Energy Resources in the Contiguous United States by Using a Limited-Area Model with Scale-Selective Data Assimilation
Authors: Liu Bin , Costa Katelyn B. , Xie Lian , Semazzi Fredrick H. M.
Published: September 2014

By using a limited-area model (LAM) in combination with the scale-selective data assimilation (SSDA) approach, wind energy resources in the contiguous United States (CONUS) were downscaled from IPCC CCSM3 global model projections for both current and future climate conditions. An assessment of climate change impacts on wind energy resources in the CONUS region was then conducted. Based on the downscaling results, when projecting into future climate under IPCC’s A1B scenario, the average annual wind speed experiences an overall shift across the CONUS region. From the current climate to the 2040s, the average annual wind speed is expected to increase from 0.1 to 0.2 m s−1over the Great Plains, Northern Great Lakes Region, and Southwestern United States located southwest of the Rocky Mountains. When projecting into the 2090s from current climate, there is an overall increase in the Great Plains Region and Southwestern United States located southwest of the Rockies with a mean wind speed increase between 0 and 0.1 m s−1, while, the Northern Great Lakes Region experiences an even greater increase from current climate to 2090s than over the first few decades with an increase of mean wind speed from 0.1 to 0.4 m s−1.
An Epidemiologic Investigation of Physical Activity and Breast Cancer Risk in Africa
Authors: Hou Ningqi , Ndom Paul , Jombwe Johashaphat , Ogundiran Temidayo , Ademola Adeyinka , Morhason-Bello Imran , Ojengbede Oladosu , Gakwaya Antony , Huo Dezheng
Published: September 2014

Background: Physical activity (PA) is modifiable and linked to decreased breast cancer risk but its impact has not been investigated among indigenous African populations.

Methods: From 2011 to 2013, 558 cases and 1,014 controls were recruited into the African Breast Cancer Study in Nigeria, Cameroon, and Uganda, and completed a culturally tailored PA questionnaire that assesses habitual PA the year before diagnosis/interview. PA sub-scores (housework, occupational, and leisure PA) and a total PA score were calculated (metabolic equivalent of task, MET-hours/day). Multiple logistic regressions were performed, adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI), study sites, and menopausal status. The models were then stratified by BMI and study site, respectively.

Results: The overall PA score among controls (17.8 MET-hours/day on average) was mainly composed by housework PA and occupational PA with little leisure PA (7.0, 10.3, and 0.5 MET-hours/day, respectively). Multivariable analyses showed that PA was significantly associated with reduced breast cancer risk in both pre- and postmenopausal women (up to 60% risk reduction), with a dose-responsive relationship (Ptrend < 0.001). The inverse association was strong among lean women, less strong but still significant among overweight women, but not existing among obese women. The inverse association held for all intensity-level and domains of PA.

Conclusions: PA of African women mainly consists of housework and work-related activities. The preliminary data show that PA may be significantly associated with reduced breast cancer risk.

Impact: An inverse association between PA and breast cancer risk was observed among indigenous African women, a unique and understudied population. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 23(12); 2748–56. ©2014 AACR.
Allogeneic Stem-Cell Transplantation for Peripheral T-Cell Lymphoma: A Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Wei Jia , Xu Jinhuan , Cao Yang , Zhou Jianfeng , Zhang Yicheng
Published: September 2014

Peripheral T-cell lymphoma (PTCL) comprises a heterogeneous group of mature T-cell tumors with a poor prognosis; allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo-SCT) may offer a potential way of cure for these patients though the optimal type and timing of transplantation remain to be defined. We performed a systemic review and meta-analysis examining the efficacy and safety of allo-SCT for PTCL. The pooled 3-year overall survival (OS) of PTCL patients treated with allo-SCT was 49.6% (95% confidence interval, CI: 41.7-57.5%). A meta-analysis of 3-year OS in allo-SCT and autologous SCT (auto-SCT) showed no statistical difference. The rates of pooled acute graft-versus-host disease (GVHD; grade 2/4) and chronic GVHD were 26.7% (95% CI: 21.4-32.9%) and 29.9% (95% CI: 24.3-36.1%), respectively. The pooled 100-day treatment-related mortality was 24.2% (95% CI: 17.2-33.0%). Of the total study patients (n = 299), 48.5% were reported dead after allo-hematopoietic SCT, with disease progression as the first cause of death in PTCL patients. Although most studies included were retrospective and their sample size was small, existing data suggested that the group of PTCL patients receiving allo-SCT was to a great degree homogeneous regarding OS, mortality without relapse, death rate and the incidence of GVHD. The most common cause of death was disease progression. The present data did not show a difference in OS between allo- and auto-SCT in PTCL patients, but large prospective studies are needed to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the role of allo-SCT in the treatment of PTCL patients. © 2014 S. Karger AG, Basel
The Overexpression of KIT Proto-Oncogene in Acute Leukemic Cells Is Not Necessarily Caused by the Gene Mutation
Authors: Szatkowski Damian , Hellmann Andrzej
Published: September 2014

KIT is detected in a variety of cells, also in acute leukemia. Inhibition of wild-type KIT is not always satisfactory. The aim of this work was to evaluate the frequency of the most common KIT mutations in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and determine the correlation between mutation and expression level. Samples were obtained from 75 patients with AL. CD117 presence was shown in 45 of 51 patients with AML and in 1 of 16 patients with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL). Asp816Val mutation was found in 3.5% of cases of AML and Val560Gly mutation in 1 sample with acute biclonal leukemia. Other genetic changes were found in 15 of 57 samples with AML: polymorphisms Met541Leu in 14% of cases, Lys546Lys in 7% and 1 case of acute biclonal leukemia, Ile798Ile in 5.3% of cases, Met541Leu in 1 acute biphenotypic leukemia and in 6.3% of ALL. Polymorphism Lys546Lys was also shown in 1 case of acute biclonal leukemia. Nonsilent genetic changes were detected in a total of 23% cases with core binding factor leukemia. There was no statistical significance between KIT expression and genetic changes. There was no correlation between the incidence and types of KIT mutations and its expression on cells in AML.
Long-Term Effect of High-Dose Dexamethasone with or without Low-Dose Dexamethasone Maintenance in Untreated Immune Thrombocytopenia
Authors: Din Banhe , Wang Xingwen , Shi Yuye , Li Yufeng
Published: September 2014

Background: To tackle the problems associated with high-dose dexamethasone (HD-DXM) in patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP). Aim: To compare the efficacy of HD-DXM with or without low-dose dexamethasone maintenance in untreated ITP patients. Results: Dexamethasone (40 mg/day) was given in 4-day pulses every 14 days for 3 cycles in 61 patients with ITP. Among them, 30 cases were given dexamethasone (0.035 mg/kg per day) for maintenance between pulsed HD-DXM and after 3 HD-DXM courses (HD-DXM-M group) and another 31 cases did not receive dexamethasone maintenance (HD-DXM-nM group). The control group comprised the patients who received prednisone (prednisone group). The following results were obtained: (1) at the end of the 3rd cycle, the overall response rate (ORR) was higher in the HD-DXM group than in the prednisone group; (2) the ORR of the HD-DXM group peaked after the 3rd cycle; (3) the ORR after each course was higher in the HD-DXM-M group than in the HD-DXM-nM group; (4) in the 12th month after HD-DXM discontinuation, the relapse rate of the HD-DXM-M group was lower than that of the other groups (prednisone and HD-DXM-nM). Conclusion: Treatment with 3 cycles of HD-DXM pulses with low-dose dexamethasone maintenance is an effective method for untreated ITP.
Circulating Matrix Metalloproteinase-9 Level Is Associated with Cerebral White Matter Hyperintensities in Non-Stroke Individuals
Authors: Kim Yoon , Kim Yu-Kyung , Kim Nam Keun , Kim Sang-Heum , Kim Ok-Joon , Oh Seung-Hun
Published: September 2014

Backgrounds: The pathogenesis of cerebral white matter hyperintensities (WMH) has been poorly understood. Our aim was to investigate the association of circulating proteins, the biomarkers of inflammation, blood-brain barrier (BBB) dysfunction, and thrombosis with WMH in non-stroke individuals. Methods: Demographic, laboratory, and brain magnetic resonance imaging parameters were prospectively analyzed in 137 subjects. The relationship between plasma interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-α, matrx-metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 and overt WMH (Fazekas grading score ≥2) was analyzed. Results: In univariate analysis, old age, high blood pressure, history of hypertension, and elevated plasma MMP-9 level were associated with overt WMH. In multivariate analysis, plasma MMP-9 still maintained a significant association with WMH. Plasma MMP-9 level was weakly but significantly associated with WMH volume (r = 0.232, p = 0.006). All the other circulating proteins examined failed to demonstrate a significant relationship with WMH. Conclusions: Plasma MMP-9 is associated with pathophysiology of WMH development.
Intralesional Cryosurgery to Treat Keloid Scars: Results from a Retrospective Study
Authors: Chopinaud Marianne , Pham Anne-Dominique , Labbé Daniel , Verneuil Laurence , Gourio Charlotte , Bénateau Hervé , Dompmartin Anne
Published: September 2014

Background: A variety of treatment modalities have been proposed to treat keloid scars, but outcomes are often disappointing. Intralesional cryosurgery may significantly reduce these scars. Objective: To evaluate the clinical safety and efficacy of intralesional cryosurgery to treat keloid scars. Feedback from patients on pain, pruritus and aesthetic discomfort was recorded before and after treatment. Methods: A total of 10 patients with 14 keloid scars resistant to conventional treatments were enrolled in a retrospective study between October 2007 and October 2013. The efficacy of this treatment was evaluated by measuring the reduction in scar surface. Results: Scar surface was reduced by an average of 58.5% after intralesional cryosurgery treatment for all scars (average pre-operative keloid scar surface: 874.6 ± 954.1 mm2; average post-operative keloid scar surface: 505.8 ± 1,024.7 mm2; p = 0.002). Pain and aesthetic discomfort were significantly decreased after treatment in all patients (p = 0.008 and p = 0.012, respectively). Conclusion: Our data suggest that intralesional cryosurgery is an effective treatment for keloids.
The Feasibility of Discontinuing Lamivudine in Lamivudine-Resistant Chronic Hepatitis B Patients on Lamivudine and Adefovir Combination Therapy
Authors: Chung Seong Min , Byoun Young-Sang , Kim Hee-Sup , Jang Eun Sun , Kim Jin-Wook , Jeong Sook-Hyang
Published: September 2014

Objectives: This study investigated the antiviral efficacy of adefovir (ADV) rescue therapy and the feasibility of lamivudine (LAM) discontinuation in LAM-resistant chronic hepatitis B (CH-B) patients who had attained a virological response (VR) with LAM + ADV combination therapy. Methods: The VR and virological breakthrough (VBT) were analyzed in 106 consecutively enrolled LAM-resistant CH-B patients who received ADV rescue therapy during a mean follow-up period of 55.2 months. Seventy-four patients achieved VR, and were divided into the LAM-discontinuation group (n = 39) and the LAM-continuation group (n = 35). The VR and VBT between the 2 groups were compared. Results: For all 106 LAM-resistant CH-B patients, the overall cumulative probabilities of VR at 1, 2, 3 and 5 years of ADV rescue therapy were 40.6, 55.7, 64.6 and 81.3%, respectively. The cumulative probabilities of VBT at 1, 2, 3 and 5 years were 0, 2.9, 8.8 and 13.9%, respectively. Whether they discontinued or continued LAM after achieving VR on LAM + ADV therapy, VR and VBT were not significantly different during a mean follow-up period of 40.4 months. Conclusions: There was a good long-term VR with ADV rescue therapy for LAM-resistant CH-B patients. Moreover, discontinuing LAM was found to be feasible for patients who attained VR during ADV + LAM therapy.
Defective Inflammatory Monocyte Development in IRF8-Deficient Mice Abrogates Migration to the West Nile Virus-Infected Brain
Authors: Terry Rachael L. , Deffrasnes Celine , Getts Daniel R. , Minten Carsten , van Vreden Caryn , Ashhurst Thomas M. , Getts Meghann T. , Xie Rui Dan Vicki , Campbell Iain L. , King Nicholas J.C.
Published: September 2014

IRF8 (interferon-regulatory factor-8) plays a critical role in regulating myeloid cell differentiation. However, the role of this transcription factor in the development of Ly6C+ inflammatory monocytes and their migration to the infected brain has not been examined. We have previously shown that West Nile virus (WNV) infection of wild-type (WT) mice triggers a significant increase in numbers of Ly6C+ monocytes in the bone marrow. These cells traffic via the blood to the infected brain, where they give rise to proinflammatory macrophages. Here, we show that WNV-infected IRF8-deficient (IRF8-/-) mice had significantly reduced numbers of Ly6C+ monocytes in the periphery, with few of these cells found in the blood. Furthermore, low numbers of inflammatory monocyte-derived macrophages were observed in the brains of IRF8-/- mice throughout infection. Adoptive transfer of IRF8-/- Ly6C+ monocytes demonstrated that these cells were intrinsically unable to traffic to the inflamed brain. Low expression of the chemokine receptor CCR2 and integrin VLA-4 by IRF8-/- monocytes likely contributed to this defect, as the interactions between these proteins and their ligands are critical for monocyte egress and migration to inflammatory foci. These data highlight a critical role for IRF8 in inflammatory monocyte differentiation and migration during WNV infection.
All Information Is Not Equal: Using the Literature Databases PubMed and The Cochrane Library for Identifying the Evidence on Granulocyte Transfusion Therapy
Authors: Metzendorf Maria-Inti , Schulz Manuela , Braun Volker
Published: September 2014

To be able to take well-informed decisions or carry out sound research, clinicians and researchers alike require specific information seeking skills matching their respective information needs. Biomedical information is traditionally available via different literature databases. This article gives an introduction to two diverging sources, PubMed (23 million references) and The Cochrane Library (800,000 references), both of which offer sophisticated instruments for searching an increasing amount of medical publications of varied quality and ambition. Whereas PubMed as an unfiltered source of primary literature comprises all different kinds of publication types occurring in academic journals, The Cochrane Library is a pre-filtered source which offers access to either synthesized publication types or critically appraised and carefully selected references. A search approach has to be carried out deliberately and requires a good knowledge on the scope and features of the databases as well as on the ability to build a search strategy in a structured way. We present a specific and a sensitive search approach, making use of both databases within two application case scenarios in order to identify the evidence on granulocyte transfusions for infections in adult patients with neutropenia.