bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroendocrine tumours: cracking the epigenetic code
Authors: Karpathakis A , Dibra H , Thirlwell C
Published: February 2013

The field of epigenetics has evolved rapidly over recent years providing insight into the tumorigenesis of many solid and haematological malignancies. Determination of epigenetic modifications in neuroendocrine tumour (NET) development is imperative if we are to improve our understanding of the biology of this heterogenous group of tumours. Epigenetic marks such as DNA methylation atRASSF1Aare frequent findings in NETs of all origins and may be associated with worse prognosis. MicroRNA signatures and histone modifications have been identified which can differentiate subtypes of NET and distinguish NET from adenocarcinoma in cases of diagnostic uncertainty. Historically, candidate gene-driven approaches have yielded limited insight into the epigenetics of NET. Recent progress has been facilitated by development of high-throughput tools including second-generation sequencing and arrays for analysis of the ‘epigenome’ of tumour and normal tissue, permitting unbiased approaches such as exome sequencing that identified mutations of chromatin-remodelling genesATRX/DAXXin 44% of pancreatic NETs. Epigenetic changes are reversible and therefore represent an attractive therapeutic target; to date, clinical outcomes of epigenetic therapies in solid tumours have been disappointing; however,in vitrostudies on NETs are promising and further clinical trials are required to determine utility of this class of novel agents. In this review, we perform a comprehensive evaluation of epigenetic changes found in NETs to date, including rare NETs such as phaeochromocytoma and adrenocortical tumours. We suggest priorities for future research and discuss potential clinical applications and novel therapies.
Failure evolution in granular material retained by rigid wall in active mode
Authors: Pietrzak Magdalena , Leśniewska Danuta
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a detailed study of a selected small scale model test, performed on a sample of surrogate granular material, retained by a rigid wall (typical geotechnical problem of earth thrust on a retaining wall). The experimental data presented in this paper show that the deformation of granular sample behind retaining wall can undergo some cyclic changes. The nature of these cycles is not clear - it is probably related to some micromechanical features of granular materials, which are recently extensively studied in many research centers in the world. Employing very precise DIC (PIV) method can help to relate micro and macro-scale behavior of granular materials.
Fully Automated System for Air Velocity Profile Measurement
Authors: Kabacinski Mirosław , Pawliczek Roland
Published: February 2013

The paper presents the idea of a system for controlling the movement of a flowmeter for air velocity profile measurement. In such a system, due to massive amount of data and limitations of the Data Acquisition Equipment, it is necessary to use moveable sensors. The flowmeter sensor is moved with the use of a linear module with a stepper motor and a tooth-belt drive. The location and speed of the sensor are controlled by a program based on the idea of virtual instrument. The proposed structure allows the user to control operation of the stand and provides automatic measurement. A wide range of velocity and step increments of the stepper motor drive, and flexibility of the virtual instrument software, allow one to create effective measurement systems ensuring sufficiently precise location with optimal time duration of measurement. It is shown that the linear module with tooth-belt is an effective alternative for similar modules with micro-screw drives.
Influence of Reaction Medium on CO2 Photocatalytic Reduction Yields Over Zns-MMT / Vliv Reakčního Prostření Na Výtěžky Fotokatalytické Redukce CO2 V Přítomnosti Zns-MMT
Authors: Reli Martin , Šihor Marcel , Kočí Kamila , Praus Petr , Kozák Ondřej , Obalová Lucie
Published: February 2013

The reduction of CO2 by photocatalysts is one of the most promising methods since CO2 can be reduced to useful compounds by irradiating it with UV light at room temperature and ambient pressure. The aim of this work was to assess the effect of a reaction media on CO2 photocatalytic reduction yields over ZnS nanoparticles deposited on montmorillonite (ZnS-MMT). Four different reaction media, such as NaOH, NaOH+Na2SO3 (1:1), NH4OH, NH4OH+Na2SO3 (1:1), were tested. The pure sodium hydroxide was better than ammonium hydroxide for the yields of the both gas phase (CH4 and CO) and liquid phase (CH3OH). The addition of Na2SO3 improved methanol yields due to the oxidation prevention of incipient methanol to carbon dioxide. The gas phase yields were decreased by the Na2SO3 addition. The best tested reaction medium for the photocatalytic reduction of CO2 was the solution of sodium hydroxide.
Effect of Yeast Supplements On Selected Health-Promoting Properties of Lamb Meat
Authors: Milewski Stanisław , Zaleska Bożena , Bednarek Dariusz , Tański Zenon , Sobiech Przemysław , Ząbek Katarzyna , Antoszkiewicz Zofia
Published: February 2013

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of yeast preparations on selected properties of meat from suckling lambs. The experiment was conducted on 30 Kamieniec rams divided into three groups: I - control, II and III - experimental. Throughout the 100-day rearing period, the experimental animals were fed diets supplemented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae prebiotics: Inter Yeast S® brewer's yeast in group II, and Biolex®-Beta S in group III. Fat content was determined by Soxhlet extraction. The fatty acid composition of intramuscular fat was determined by esterification followed by gas chromatography analysis. The content of vitamins A and E was determined by liquid chromatography. A significant increase in the content of fat, cholesterol, and vitamin E was noted in the meat of lambs of group II in comparison with control. The fat of animals in group II contained more fatty acids: C14:1, C18:2, C22:6 (P≤0.05), and C18:2 n-6 cis9trans11 (P≤0.01), and less C20:4 (P≤0.01). The fat of animals of group III contained more C18:0 and C22:6 fatty acids (P≤0.05), and less C18:0 (P≤0.05). The fat in this group had also lower concentrations of MUFA (P≤0.05), UFA, and, consequently, a lower UFA/SFA ratio (P≤0.05) in comparison with controls. The yeast-based supplements significantly affected selected health-promoting properties of lamb meat. The applied diet supplements had no significant effect on AI and TI values.
Antibacterial Activity of Tissues of Bivalve Molluscs Available on Polish Market
Authors: Różańska Hanna , Michalski Mirosław , Osek Jacek
Published: February 2013

One hundred and ninety seven samples of molluscs representing different species were tested for the presence of antibacterial substances using a microbiological diffusion test - “4-plate” method. It was found that 58 samples (29.4%) were positive. The percentage of positive samples depended on species and varied from 0 (Ostrea edulis, Perna canaliculis, Cardium
edule, Myretrix lyrata, Mercenaria mercenaria) to 41.2 (Mytilus edulis) and 50.0 (Tapes semidecussatus and Ruditapes
phillipinarium). The randomly performed confirmatory analyses using HPLC -MS/MS method did not show the presence of any known antibiotics.
Nodular Mastocytosis of the Vulva and Coexisting Urticaria Pigmentosa / Nodularna Mastocitoza vulve udružena sa urtikarijom pigmentozom
Authors: Prćić Sonja , Đuran Verica , Gajinov Zorica , Čeke Matild , Tomić Jelena , Vijatov Gordana , Anđelić Mirjana
Published: February 2013

Nodular forms of mastocytosis are rather rare skin diseases, especially when localized on the vulva. A 9-year-old girl presented with urticaria pigmentosa type lesions since her 4th year, associated with several solitary or confluent vulvar nodules, varying in size from a pea to a walnut, and mild systemic symptoms. Diagnosis of mastocytosis was confirmed by histology, and apart from splenomegaly, no signs of systemic spread or associated hematologic disorders were detected. Therapeutic response of nodular lesions was rather poor, and further follow up is necessary.
Chronic bullous disease of childhood – A case report / Hronična bulozna bolest Kod Dece – Prikaz Slučaja
Authors: Gocev Đorđi , Damevska Katerina , Nikolovska Suzana , Pavlova Ljubica , Petrova Nada
Published: February 2013

Linear IgA bullous dermatosis is a chronic, acquired, autoimmune subepidermal vesiculobullous disease. Both children and adults are affected. It is characterized by direct immunofluorescence findings of linear immunoglobulins class A (IgA) deposits along the dermal-epidermal junction (basement membrane zone). In children, the disease is commonly referred to as chronic bullous disease of childhood and it mostly affects children between 2 and 5 years. The onset of the disease is acute; the first episode is the most severe, while recurrences tend to wax and wane in severity and last till puberty or even longer. Diaminodiphenylsulfone is the treatment of choice, although systemic corticosteroids are reported to be very effective as well. We report a 3-year-old boy with a vesiculobullous eruption which developed one week following administration of cephalexin for upper respiratory infection. He was referred to our Clinic from other health institutions as treatment failure for suspected strophulus or impetigo bullosus. On admission, the patient had fever and numerous vesiculobullous and erosive lesions distributed on the face and trunk. After immunohistological verification, the treatment with prednisone 25 mg/d was introduced, due to rapid progression of the disease and the fact that diaminodiphenylsulfone was not available. Improvement occurred after 2 weeks, so the dose was carefully tapered, taking into account the possibility of adrenal suppression. The medication was completely excluded within the next three months. No serious side effects were observed, except transitory hirsutism. The patient has had no relapses over the last 20 months of clinical follow-up.
Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Frequent Challenge / Bazocelularni karcinom: čest izazov
Authors: Roš Tatjana , Gajić Branislava , Ivkov-Simić Milana , Gajinov Zorica
Published: February 2013

Basal cell carcinoma is a slow-growing, malignant epidermal tumor predominantly affecting sun exposed areas in Caucasians, accounting for up to 80% of all diagnosed skin cancers, with a rising incidence. Chronic UV radiation, in association with constitutional factors, plays the main role in its etiology. Inappropriate activation of the hedgehog signaling pathway seems to be a key pathogenesis mechanism. Basal cell carcinoma metastases are extremely rare, but it is a locally invasive tumor that can cause significant destruction of the surrounding tissues, with their functional and esthetic impairment. There are four main clinical types of basal cell carcinoma, although clinical classification is of poor prognostic significance. Preselection of suspicious lesions and treatment planning include noninvasive diagnostic techniques: dermoscopy, confocal microscopy and ultrasoud imaging, yet histopathology remains the “gold standard” of basal cell carcinoma diagnosis. In terms of the histological growth pattern, which is essential for the prognosis, basal cell carcinoma may be divided into circumscribed or diffuse types. Surgical excision is considered to be a first line treatment option, but there are numerous less invasive treatment modalities for low-risk basal cell carcinoma. Prevention strategies are focused on behavioral modifications, regular follow up and use of chemopreventive agents in high-risk patients.
Cutaneous Adverse Drug Reactions / Dematološka neželjena dejstva lekova
Authors: Kandolf-Sekulović Lidija , Radević Tatjana
Published: February 2013

Adverse drug reactions may be defined as undesirable clinical manifestations resulting from administration of a particular drug; this includes reactions due to overdose, predictable side effects, and unanticipated adverse manifestations. Adverse drug effects on the skin are among the most frequent reactions and, according to a study, account for approximately 14% of all adverse drug reactions. However, the incidence of cutaneous adverse effects in general population is unknown. Systemic drug administration results in various cutaneous adverse reactions, and medications used in the treatment of skin diseases themselves have their own adverse effects. Adverse drug reactions include a wide range of effects, from harmless exanthema of short duration, urticaria to systemic cutaneous reactions such as drug rash with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) or toxic epidermal necrolysis. Exanthematous eruptions and urticaria are the two most common forms of cutaneous drug reactions. Less common include fixed eruptions, lichenoid, pustular, bullous and vasculitis reactions. The most severe cutaneous and mucosal adverse drug reactions are epidermal necrolysis, which is usually drug-induced, DRESS syndrome, and acute generalized exanthematous pustulosis. Therefore, the diagnostic of adverse drug reactions requires a detailed history of drug intake and development of skin disorders, excellent knowledge of clinical presentations for a wide range of drug-induced skin reactions as well as of the very medications being taken by patients. In addition to details on drug intake, it is necessary to learn about taking herbal and alternative preparations, which may also cause adverse reactions. A drug started within 6 weeks of the development of disorders is considered the most common cause of adverse reaction, as well as drugs taken periodically but regularly. Once a reaction has occurred, it is important to prevent future similar reactions with the same drug or a cross-reacting medication. Early withdrawal of all potentially responsible drugs is essential, particularly in case of severe drug reactions.
The first observation of the Levant sparrowhawk Accipiter brevipes (Severtzov, 1850) in Slovakia
Authors: Danko Štefan , Hrtan Ervín
Published: February 2013

On May 1 5, 201 2 an individual of Levant sparrowhawk Accipiter brevipes was observed at the southern edge of Trebišov town in eastern Slovakia, situated in the Východoslovenská rovina Lowlands. The sighting was documented with photographs. This is the first recorded occurrence of this species in terms of the bird fauna of Slovakia. The present article describes in detail its distribution and breeding in eastern Hungary and western Romania, based on an isolated population in the Pannonian Basin at the north-western edge of its breeding range. The occurrence of the Levant sparrowhawk beyond the boundaries of its breeding range and outside the Pannonian Basin consists mostly of rare movements by young individuals (northern Moravia, central and northern Poland) far north of its breeding range. An adult male was observed in south-eastern Poland in the pre-breeding period, and in Slovakia an adult female was observed in the breeding period.
Non-linear optimization of high-pressure gas networks with respect to hydrate control / Nieliniowa optymalizacja sieci gazowej wysokiego ciśnienia z uwzględnieniem zapobieganiu hydratów
Authors: Osiadacz Andrzej J. , Uilhoorn Ferdinand E. , Chaczykowski Maciej
Published: February 2013

In this paper, gas pipeline optimization includes constraints resulting from hydrate prevention. The key is to seek for the optimal settings of both: the compressor units and hydrate combating method at minimum fuel consumption subject to security of supply and hydrate prevention. A case study is conducted on the Polish section of the Yamal pipeline and an arbitrarily selected partial onshore and offshore pipeline. Three different configurations are investigated: (i) cooling the compressed gas, (ii) no cooling and (iii) line heating immediately after the compressor station. For each configuration, the fuel consumption of the compressors is minimized and in order to prevent hydrate formation, the outlet temperature of the line heater, allowable water vapour in the gas and methanol concentration are calculated for each pipe section. The hydrate model is based on the statistical mechanical approach of Van der Waals and Platteeuw and applicable for systems that contain water (free or dissolved in gas), methanol and mixed gases both hydrate and non-hydrate formers.
Focal Mechanisms of Mine-Induced Seismic Events an Explanation of Geomechanical Processes in the Area of Longwall 6, Seam 510 In Hard Coal Mine “Bobrek-Centrum” / Mechanizm Ognisk Indukowanych Wstrząsów Górniczych Wyjaśnieniem Procesów Geomechanicznych W Rejonie Ściany 6, Pokład 510 W Kopalni „Bobrek-Centrum”
Authors: Stec Krystyna
Published: February 2013

Exploitation in a coal mine “Bobrek-Centrum” of the longwall 6 in seam 510 has led to the occurrence of very high seismic activity. From January 2011 to June 2012 took place almost 3500 tremors with the energy of 102-104 J and 95 tremors of energy more than to 105 J. In an attempt to identify the character of that seismicity, calculations of focal mechanism parameters were carried out, and according to them local stress field was determined. Three periods of exploitation of longwall 6 were distinguished which vary in type of focal mechanism. Tremors, which occurred in exploitation periods I and III were characterized by normal slip mechanism, occurred due to domination of vertical principal stresses σ1, horizontal intermediate stresses σ2 and minimal ones σ3. Such stress arrangement characterizes local state of rock mass behaviour as a result of cracking and collapse of sandstone, tremor-generating strata during advancing exploitation. In exploitation period II, of non-shearing mechanism of foci occurred. That was the period of change of longwall run from the NE-SW direction to E-W direction, that is the period of so called “slanting” of exploitation front. It can be presumed that this type of tremor mechanism could have occurred due to a sudden coal bed load by superimposed roof strata, which may have led to extreme load conditions and to a dynamic disintegration of seam part. It was confirmed by geomechanical calculations, which indicated that in the region of rockburst existence on 19.07.2011, layers which were located above and under seam 510 in area of longwall no. 6 were strongly deformed locally causing compression of certain parts of seam.
The Law of Effective Stress for Rocks in Light of Results of Laboratory Experiments / Prawo Naprężeń Efektywnych Dla Skał W Świetle Wyników Badań Laboratoryjnych
Authors: Nowakowski Andrzej
Published: February 2013

This paper presents the results of laboratory tests carried out in order to formulate effective stress law. The law was sought for two different cases: first - when rock was treated as a porous Biot medium (Biot, 1941; Nur & Byerlee, 1971) and second - when the law was formulated according to definition of Robin (1973) developed by Gustkiewicz (1990) and Nowakowski (2007). In the first case coefficents (4) and (5) of the Biot equation (3) were were determined on the basis of compressibility test, in the second one effective pressure equation (9) and effective pressure value (11) were found on the basis of results of so called individual triaxial compression test (see Kovari et al., 1983) according to the methodology given by Nowakowski (2007).

On the basis of Biot coefficients set of values was found that volumetric strain of the pore space described by a coefficient (5) was not dependent on the type of pore fluid and the pore pressure of only, while in case of volumetric strain of total rock described by coefficient (4) both the structure and texture of rock were important.

The individual triaxial compression test results showed that for tested rock an effective pressure equation was a linear function of pore pressure as (15). The so called Rebinder effect (Rehbinder & Lichtman, 1957) might cause, that the α coefficient in equation (15) could assume values greater than one. This happened particularly in the case when the porous fluid was non-inert carbon dioxide.

In case of inert pore fluid like kerosene the test results suggested that the a coefficient in equation (15) decreased while the differential strength limit was increasing. This might be caused by, so called, dillatancy strengthening (see Zoback & Byerlee, 1975).

Another considered important parameter of the equation (15) was the value of the effective press p'. The results showed that the value of this parameter was practically independend on the pore fluid type. This conclusion was contrary to previous research (see, for example, Gustkiewicz et al., 2003 and Gustkiewicz, 1990) so these results should be treated with caution. There are no doubts, however, over p' increasing simultaneously with increase in Rσ1-σ3. Basically, the differential strength limit of the specimen is greater the greater is confining pressure applied to it. Thus, higher Rσ1-σ3 values are accompanied by higher p'.
Selection of the Longwall Face Crew with Respect to Stochastic Character of the Production Process – Part 1 – Procedural Description / Wyznaczanie Obsady Przodka Ścianowego Z Uwzględnieniem Stochastycznego Charakteru Procesu Produkcyjnego. Cz. 1 – Opis Metody
Authors: Snopkowski Ryszard , Sukiennik Marta
Published: February 2013

A proposal of the method aimed at the longwall face crew selection with respect to stochastic character of the production process has been described in this study. Modules, which can be isolated from the production cycle, as well as methods of determination of the probability function density describing duration of individual action realized in production process, have been described in the first part of the study.

Procedure of crew selection of individual modules, including optional crew selection, has been described in next chapters. Statement of action, which should be executed in order to apply the proposed method, including final conclusions, is discussed in the last chapter.
Lichens from two inland localities in west Greenland and their climatic preferences
Authors: Hansen Eric Steen
Published: February 2013

Hansen E. S., 2012: Lichens from two inland localities in West Greenland and their climatic preferences [Kerpės iš dviejų vidinių vakarinės Grenlandijos vietovių bei jų klimatinės preferencijos]. - Bot. Lith., 18(1): 19-26. In total, 143 lichen taxa collected from two inland localities in West Greenland are reported and categorized toward their climatic preferences in Greenland. Eighty three lichen taxa were collected in Eqaluit ilorliit in the Ameralik Fjord area in 2000 and 120 lichen taxa were collected in Utaap kuua, east of Sisimiut, in 1998. The two localities share 58 lichen taxa. Almost three fourths of the 143 lichens are more or less equally distributed in continental and oceanic areas in Greenland. About one sixth of the lichens occur most frequently in oceanic areas and more rarely in continental areas, while less than one tenth of the lichens occur frequently in continental areas and more rarely in oceanic areas. The climate of the two localities is low arctic, oceanic. Although they are situated at some distance from the outer coast and close to the continental zone, they are poor in lichens with a mainly continental distribution in Greenland compared to, for example, Kangerlussuaq, which is located in the continental inland region in the southernmost West Greenland.
A Contribution to the Lichen Flora of North East Greenland
Authors: Hansen Eric Steen
Published: February 2013

Hansen E. S., 2012: A contribution to the lichen flora of North East Greenland [Papildomi duomenys apie šiaurės rytų Grenlandijos florą]. - Bot. Lith., 18(2): 109-116.

The paper lists 83 species of lichens from North East Greenland between 75° and 80°N. A little more than half of the species, viz. 45, were recorded for the first time from this region. Fell-field lichens from alkaline and neutral as well as slightly acid ground are presented in the material, which, however, also contains some species of lichens found growing in moist heath localities as well as those with snow patches. The material includes numerous saxicolous lichens from siliceous bird rocks and rocks without visible influence of guano including some alkaline rocks.
Longitudinal volumetric MRI study of pituitary gland following severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Craciunas Sorin C. , Cirstea Carmen M. , Yeh Hung-Wen , Hutfles Lewis , Lierman Joann , Schmitt Allan , Brooks William M.
Published: February 2013

Purpose: Previous studies have suggested that the hypopituitarism following traumatic brain injury (TBI) is more prevalent than traditionally thought. The objective of this study was to characterize longitudinal MRI morphometric changes of pituitary gland in patients with severe TBI.

Materials and methods: Fourteen patients who had suffered a severe TBI (Glasgow Coma Score=3 - 8) underwent MRI at three time points: Time 1 (mean=31. 5 days), Time 2 (98. 0) and Time 3 (185. 5). The pituitary gland volume was quantified by manually tracing on T1-weighted magnetic resonance images. Data from TBI patients were compared to 14 age- and sexmatched uninjured controls. The relationships between pituitary volumetric measures and patient demographics, length of respiratory support and coma, and presence of intracranial hemorrhage or skull fractures were also analyzed.

Results: Following TBI, the pituitary volumes were significantly greater at all three time points: Time 1: median=665mm3, range=460-830mm3, p=0. 007; Time 2: 694mm3, 467-866mm3, 0. 007; and Time 3: 655mm3, 444- 795mm3, 0. 015, compared with controls (504mm3, 433-591mm3). At Time 1, pituitary volume was increased in 10 out of 14 patients. Of these, early pituitary enlargements persisted up to six months in nine patients. Pituitary enlargements were negatively correlated with GCS, but not with other variables.

Conclusion: Following a severe TBI, early pituitary enlargement found in most of our patients persisted in the chronic phases. Our data suggest a potential role of MRI morphometry in early prediction of pituitary dysfunction following head trauma, but further studies including hormonal measurements are necessary for validation.
SOCIAL CAPITAL AND INVESTMENT IN R&D: NEW EXTERNALITIES
Authors: Sequeira Tiago Neves , Ferreira-Lopes Alexandra
Published: February 2013

We introduce social capital in an endogenous growth model with physical capital, human capital, and research and development (R&D), and we compare the market with the efficient solutions. As social capital is not tradable in the market and since it favours research networks, it introduces new externalities in this framework. These externalities induce the market to invest less in social capital than would a social planner and decrease the tendency to underinvestment in R&D. We quantify the distortions in the model. In some conditions, the new distortions are strong enough to overcome the usual result of underinvestment in R&D.
LEGITIMACY SIGNALS AND FAMILY IPO PERFORMANCES
Authors: Ding Hung-bin , Pukthuanthong Kuntara
Published: February 2013

The objective of this research is to examine the relationship between signals including governance and management practices and the performance of family firms IPOs. Using IPO data of 129 family firms and 129 comparable non-family firms from the Taiwan Stock Exchange, our findings highlighted the role of non-family insiders, or non-family affiliated directors in the IPOs of family firms. Our comparison between family and non-family IPOs shows hiring prestigious underwriters significantly improves the performance of family firm IPOs. Finally, we found the industries of IPO firms moderate the relationship between corporate governance characteristics and IPO performances, as non-family firms in technology industries are perceived to be more legitimate than their family counterparts. This paper makes three contributions to existing research. Firstly, we contribute to the legitimacy theory by suggesting an interaction effect between internal (organizational) and external (environmental) factors. Secondly, our analysis highlighted the roles of affiliated directors and industry in the performances of public family firms. Thirdly, this study contributes to the family business research by underscoring the differences between family and non-family firms in the IPO context.
MRI-GUIDED NAVIGATION AND POSITIONING SOLUTION FOR REPETITIVE TRANSCRANIAL MAGNETIC STIMULATION
Authors: Liu Shangping , Shi Lin , Wang Defeng , Chen Ji , Jiang Zhimin , Wang Weimin , Chu Winnie CW , Wang Tianfu , Ahuja A. T.
Published: February 2013

A MRI-guided navigation solution for repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS)was designed in this study which integrates optical positioning system to perform positioning and tracking of the magnetic stimulation coil in real-time. The system includes the following procedures: segmentation and 3D reconstruction of brain anatomy from T1-weighted (T1W) MRI, coil calibration and localization, spatial registration between the subject's head and the MRI data and 2D/3D navigation. The 2D/3D navigation provides the spatial relationship between actual sites of the coils and the cortical surface quantitively and allows visualization of the location and orientation of the coil over the brain/head. Verified through the experiments using a phantom human skull model and the head MRI data from a healthy human subject, the proposed navigation system was demonstrated to be flexible, safe, accurate and time efficient.
DYNAMIC RESPONSES OF INTERVERTEBRAL DISC DURING STATIC CREEP AND DYNAMIC CYCLIC LOADING: A PARAMETRIC POROELASTIC FINITE ELEMENT ANALYSIS
Authors: Nikkhoo Mohammad , Haghpanahi Mohammad , Parnianpour Mohamad , Wang Jaw-Lin
Published: February 2013

Low back pain is a common reason for activity limitation in people younger than 45 years old, and was proved to be associated with heavy physical works, repetitive lifting, impact, stationary work postures and vibrations. The study of load transferring and the loading condition encountered in spinal column can be simulated by finite element models. The intervertebral disc is a structure composed of a porous material. Many physical models were developed to simulate this phenomenon. The confounding effects of poroelastic properties and loading conditions on disc mechanical responses are, nevertheless, not cleared yet. The objective of this study was to develop an axisymmetric poroelastic finite element model of intervertebral disc and use it to investigate the confounding effect of material properties and loading conditions on the disc deformation and pore pressure. An axisymmetric poroelastic model of human lumbar L4–L5 motion segment was developed. The model was validated by comparing the height loss and intradiscal pressure of the L4–L5 intervertebral disc with in vitro cadaveric studies. The effect of permeability, void ratio, elastic modulus, and Poisson's ratio on disc height and pore pressure was investigated for the following three loading conditions: (1) 1334 N creep loading, (2) peak-to-peak, 1000-to-1600 N, 1 Hz cyclic loading, and (3) same loading magnitude, but at 5 Hz loading frequency. The disc height loss and pore pressure of the three loading conditions were analyzed. The predictions of the disc height loss and intradiscal pressure of the current FE model are well comparable with the results of in vitro cadaveric studies. After model validation, the parametric study of disc poroelastic properties on the disc mechanical responses shows that the increase of permeability and void ratio increases the disc height loss and decreases the pore pressure, and these effects are sensitive to external loading frequency. Higher elastic modulus reduces the disc deformation and the pore pressure, but this reduction is not sensitive to the loading frequency. The effect of Poisson's ratio on disc height loss and pore pressure is negligible. In conclusion, the hydraulic permeability describes the fluid flow capability within tissue matrix which has a higher sensitivity on the saturation time for disc deformation and pore pressure. Void ratio directly affects the amount of mobile water within disc and changes time-dependent response of disc. Increase in loading frequency reduces time for fluid inflow and outflow, which fades out the role of permeability and void ratio. Values of elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio, which demonstrates stiffness and bulging capacity, respectively, do not affect the overall dynamic response of disc.
Secure Data Hiding Using Eight Queens Solutions
Authors: Muttoo Sunil Kumar , Kumar Vinay , Bansal Abhishek
Published: February 2013

The 8-queens problem of placing 8 non-attacking queens on an 8x8 chessboard is used to hide message in an image. The method helps in randomizing the bit selection in a cover image for hiding purpose. Cover image is divided into blocks of 8x1 bytes and then masked with solutions of the 8-queens problem. Bits from the block are collected corresponding to the 8-queen solution to make a 7 bit string. LSB of the block is not considered. It gives a number in the range of 0 to 127. If a bit string, corresponding to the 8-queens solutions, matches with ASCII code of the first character from message, the corresponding solution number of the 8-queens problem is encrypted using RC4, and the cipher is stored in first block of the cover. This encrypted value works as key. The solution number corresponding to next character is XORED with the key and the resultant value is embedded in the LSB of next block. The algorithm has been tested with cover of different image file formats like BMP, PNG and TIFF. The algorithm provides very good capacity, imperceptibility and robustness.
Effect of the Degree of Crystallinity on the Electrochemical Behavior of Mg65Cu25Y10 and Mg70Zn25Ca5 Bulk Metallic Glasses
Authors: Zhou X. , Ralston K.D. , Laws K.J. , Cao J.D. , Gupta R.K. , Ferry M. , Birbilis N.
Published: February 2013

The effect of varying the percent crystallinity on the electrochemical behavior of Mg65Cu25Y10 and Mg70Zn25Ca5 bulk metallic glasses was studied. The alloys were heat-treated to achieve desired microstructures ranging from fully amorphous to fully crystalline, providing a systematic basis for subsequent testing. Potentiodynamic experiments in 0.01 M sodium chloride (NaCl) were used, whereby both the amorphous and partially crystallized samples were observed to have more noble corrosion potentials and lower anodic kinetics. However, this was accompanied by more rapid cathodic kinetics relative to their fully crystalline counterparts, meaning that corrosion rates were not significantly lower in the amorphous state. To describe the electrochemical response as a function of the degree of crystallinity, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), scanning electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD), and electrical conductivity measurements were undertaken, where it was found that crystallinity alone is not necessarily the controlling factor and microchemistry that evolves upon devitrification, plays a key role in the electrochemical response of these materials.
The Schweich Lectures and Biblical Archaeology
Authors: Davies Graham
Published: February 2013

The first Schweich Lectures were given by Professor S. R. Driver of Oxford University in 1908 and the British Academy celebrated the centenary of the lectures with a single lecture in 2008. This book is an amplified version of that lecture, with each of its three chapters developing a theme relevant to the occasion. The lectures, on aspects of the study of antiquity in its relationship to the Bible, were established by a gift from Constance Schweich (later Mrs Goetze) in memory of her late father, Leopold Schweich. The first chapter of this book brings together biographical information (including some previously unpublished documents) about the Schweichs, who were originally a German Jewish family with close connections to the distinguished chemist and industrialist Ludwig Mond. The donation was the first major benefaction received by the British Academy, which had been founded in 1901 but initially had no government funding. The second chapter uses archival and published sources to reconstruct the circumstances and the history of the lectureship. An Appendix lists the names of all the lecturers, their subjects, and details of the publication of their lectures. The final chapter, ‘Archaeology and the Bible — A Broken Link?’, examines broader questions about ‘biblical archaeology’, which arose in the later twentieth century in the light of developments in archaeological theory and biblical scholarship, and considers whether there is still a future for collaboration between the two disciplines. The book provides a glimpse into Jewish philanthropy in England in the Edwardian era.
Dynamic User Optimal Signal Design at Isolated Intersections
Authors: Ren Hualing , Liu Haoxiang , Long Jiancheng , Gao Ziyou
Published: February 2013

This paper presents a proposal of novel signal design problem at isolated intersections, which assumes that the effective green times assigned to each signal phase follow dynamic user optimal (DUO) principle. At the DUO state, the average delays of vehicles using the signal phases with positive additional green times (the assigned effective green times minus the minimum effective green times) are equal and maximum. The proposed signal design problem is formulated as a variational inequality (VI) problem. The point queue (PQ) model is applied to represent traffic dynamics and to generate the cumulative traffic flows, which is further used to estimate the average delay of each signal phase. The existence of the solution of the proposed VI problem is proved and a solution algorithm based on the method of successive averages (MSA) is developed to solve the proposed signal design problem. Finally, a sample intersection is used to illustrate the application of the proposed model and the solution algorithm.
Kinetic Profiles and Management of Hepatitis B Virus Reactivation in Patients With Immune‐Mediated Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Droz Nina , Gilardin Laurent , Cacoub Patrice , Berenbaum Francis , Wendling Daniel , Godeau Bertrand , Piette Anne‐Marie , Dernis Emmanuelle , Ebbo Mikael , Fautrel Bruno , Le Guenno Guillaume , Mekinian Arsène , Bernard‐Chabert Brigitte , Costedoat‐Chalumeau Nathalie , Descloux Elodie , Michot Jean‐Marie , Radenne Sylvie , Rigolet Aude , Rivière Sophie , Yvin Jean‐Luc , Thibault Vincent , Thabut Dominique , Pol Stanislas , Guillevin Loïc , Mouthon Luc , Terrier Benjamin
Published: February 2013

Objective

Immunosuppressive therapy may trigger hepatitis B virus (HBV) reactivation for increased morbidity and mortality. We aimed to describe HBV reactivation in patients receiving treatment for immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) and to evaluate a predefined algorithm for its prevention.

Methods

Physicians submitted data for patients receiving treatment for IMIDs and exhibiting HBV reactivation, defined as an increase of >1 log10 IU/ml of HBV DNA levels or DNA reappearance. We systematically reviewed cases in the literature.

Results

The 35 physician‐collected patients had rheumatoid arthritis (n = 14), connective tissue disease (n = 7), vasculitis (n = 5), and other diseases (n = 9). At baseline, 65.7% of patients were positive for hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), 31.4% had a history of HBV infection, and 2.9% had occult HBV infection. Reactivation occurred a median of 35 weeks (range 2–397 weeks) after the start of corticosteroid and/or immunosuppressive therapy. In all, 88.6% of patients were clinically asymptomatic, but 25.7% had severe hepatitis; none had fulminant hepatitis. Management was antiviral therapy for 91.4%, with discontinuation or decrease of immunosuppressive therapy for 45.7%. In pooling these 35 cases and 103 patients from the literature, 73.9% of patients were clinically asymptomatic, 33.3% had severe hepatitis, and 12.3% died and/or had fulminant hepatitis. Reactivation occurred early with rituximab or cyclophosphamide therapy and in HBsAg‐positive/HBV DNA–positive patients. Using the predefined algorithm, 78% of patients with reactivation would have received preemptive antiviral therapy.

Conclusion

We provide new insights into HBV reactivation in patients receiving treatment for IMIDs. A predefined algorithm may be effective in reducing the risk of HBV reactivation in this population.
Ultrathin Terahertz Planar Elements
Authors: Hu Dan , Wang Xinke , Feng Shengfei , Ye Jiasheng , Sun Wenfeng , Kan Qiang , Klar Peter J. , Zhang Yan
Published: February 2013

Various ultrathin planar optical elements, including cylindrical lens, spherical lens, and phase holograms, are designed based on the interface phase modulation of antenna resonances in the terahertz (THz) range. The focusing and imaging performance of the lenses and image‐reconstruction ability of the pure phase holograms are demonstrated experimentally. In contrast to conventional bulky optical elements where curve surfaces are used to control the light propagation, the manipulations of light propagation for these thin planar optical elements are achieved through designed arrays of complementary V‐shaped antennas in the planar gold films with a thickness of 100 nm (1/4000th of the wavelength of the illuminating light). The adoption of the complementary V‐shaped antennas makes the optical elements have double functions: light propagation manipulation and filtering, which improves the performance of the optical elements by blocking the disturbance from the direct transmission. This research is a significant step towards the reduction of the THz elements size and, therefore, to the development of micro‐integrated THz systems and to other applications where the compaction is necessary. The approach used here can be expanded to multifarious optical elements in different wave bands.
In Vivo Cyclic Compression Causes Cartilage Degeneration and Subchondral Bone Changes in Mouse Tibiae
Authors: Ko Frank C. , Dragomir Cecilia , Plumb Darren A. , Goldring Steven R. , Wright Timothy M. , Goldring Mary B. , van der Meulen Marjolein C. H.
Published: February 2013

Objective

Alterations in the mechanical loading environment in joints may have both beneficial and detrimental effects on articular cartilage and subchondral bone, and may subsequently influence the development of osteoarthritis (OA). Using an in vivo tibial loading model, the aim of this study was to investigate the adaptive responses of cartilage and bone to mechanical loading and to assess the influence of load level and duration.

Methods

Cyclic compression at peak loads of 4.5N and 9.0N was applied to the left tibial knee joint of adult (26‐week‐old) C57BL/6 male mice for 1, 2, and 6 weeks. Only 9.0N loading was utilized in young (10‐week‐old) mice. Changes in articular cartilage and subchondral bone were analyzed by histology and micro–computed tomography.

Results

Mechanical loading promoted cartilage damage in both age groups of mice, and the severity of joint damage increased with longer duration of loading. Metaphyseal bone mass increased with loading in young mice, but not in adult mice, whereas epiphyseal cancellous bone mass decreased with loading in both young and adult mice. In both age groups, articular cartilage thickness decreased, and subchondral cortical bone thickness increased in the posterior tibial plateau. Mice in both age groups developed periarticular osteophytes at the tibial plateau in response to the 9.0N load, but no osteophyte formation occurred in adult mice subjected to 4.5N peak loading.

Conclusion

This noninvasive loading model permits dissection of temporal and topographic changes in cartilage and bone and will enable investigation of the efficacy of treatment interventions targeting joint biomechanics or biologic events that promote OA onset and progression.
Adipose‐Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cells Exert Antiinflammatory Effects on Chondrocytes and Synoviocytes From Osteoarthritis Patients Through Prostaglandin E2
Authors: Manferdini Cristina , Maumus Marie , Gabusi Elena , Piacentini Anna , Filardo Giuseppe , Peyrafitte Julie‐Anne , Jorgensen Christian , Bourin Philippe , Fleury‐Cappellesso Sandrine , Facchini Andrea , Noël Danièle , Lisignoli Gina
Published: February 2013

Objective

To examine the effect of different sources of Good Manufacturing Practice clinical grade adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD‐MSCs) on inflammatory factors in osteoarthritic (OA) chondrocytes and synoviocytes.

Methods

AD‐MSCs from infrapatellar Hoffa fat, subcutaneous (SC) hip fat, and SC abdominal fat were cocultured in Transwells with chondrocytes or synoviocytes. Inflammatory factors (interleukin‐1β [IL‐1β], tumor necrosis factor α, IL‐6, CXCL1/growth‐related oncogene α, CXCL8/IL‐8, CCL2/monocyte chemotactic protein 1, CCL3/macrophage inflammatory protein 1α, and CCL5/RANTES) were evaluated by quantitative reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction or multiplex bead–based immunoassay. The role of different immunomodulators was analyzed.

Results

All the inflammatory factors analyzed were down‐modulated at the messenger RNA or protein level independently by all 3 AD‐MSC sources or by allogeneic AD‐MSCs used in coculture with chondrocytes or synoviocytes. Inflammatory factor down‐modulation was observed only when AD‐MSCs were cocultured with chondrocytes or synoviocytes that produced high levels of inflammatory factors, but no effect was observed in cells that produced low levels of those factors, thus highlighting a dependence of the AD‐MSC effect on existing inflammation. The immunomodulators IL‐10, IL‐1 receptor antagonist, fibroblast growth factor 2, indoleamine 2,3‐dioxygenase 1, and galectin 1 were not involved in AD‐MSC effects, whereas the cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2)/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) pathway exerted a role in the mechanism of antiinflammatory AD‐MSC action.

Conclusion

The antiinflammatory effects of AD‐MSCs are probably not dependent on AD‐MSC adipose tissue sources and donors but rather on the inflammatory status of OA chondrocytes and synoviocytes. AD‐MSCs seem to be able to sense and respond to the local environment. Even though a combination of different molecules may be involved in AD‐MSC effects, the COX‐2/PGE2 pathway may play a role, suggesting that AD‐MSCs may be useful for therapies in osteoarticular diseases.
Development and validation of a spectrofluorimetric method for the quantification of ceftriaxone in pharmaceutical formulations and plasma
Authors: Shah Jasmin , Jan M. Rasul , Shah Sultan , Inayatullah
Published: February 2013

We describe the development and validation of a new, simple, sensitive and cost‐effective method for the determination of ceftriaxone in commercial formulations and spiked human plasma. The method proposes the conversion of ceftriaxone into a fluorescent product by reacting with ortho‐phthalaldehyde (OPA) in the presence of sulfite at room temperature. The reaction medium is buffered to pH 10 using borate buffer. The derivatized reaction product is highly fluorescent and exhibits maximum fluorescence intensity at λem = 386 nm after excitation at λex = 324 nm. The experimental parameters affecting progress of the derivatization reaction were carefully studied and optimized. Under optimum experimental conditions, the method has an excellent correlation coefficient of 0.9984 with a broad linear range of 0.4−20 µg/mL. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were found to be 1.30 × 10−3 and 3.90 × 10−3 µg/mL, respectively. The interference effects of common excipients on the quantification of drug were investigated and no interference effect was observed. The proposed method has been successfully applied to the determination of ceftriaxone in pharmaceutical formulations and spiked human plasma samples. The method has been validated statistically through percent recovery studies using standard addition and by comparison with a reference HPLC method. The developed method exhibits excellent inter‐ and intraday precision. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.