bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serum Biomarkers Identification by Mass Spectrometry in High-Mortality Tumors
Authors: Tessitore Alessandra , Gaggiano Agata , Cicciarelli Germana , Verzella Daniela , Capece Daria , Fischietti Mariafausta , Zazzeroni Francesca , Alesse Edoardo
Published: January 2013

Cancer affects millions of people worldwide. Tumor mortality is substantially due to diagnosis at stages that are too late for therapies to be effective. Advances in screening methods have improved the early diagnosis, prognosis, and survival for some cancers. Several validated biomarkers are currently used to diagnose and monitor the progression of cancer, but none of them shows adequate specificity, sensitivity, and predictive value for population screening. So, there is an urgent need to isolate novel sensitive, specific biomarkers to detect the disease early and improve prognosis, especially in high-mortality tumors. Proteomic techniques are powerful tools to help in diagnosis and monitoring of treatment and progression of the disease. During the last decade, mass spectrometry has assumed a key role in most of the proteomic analyses that are focused on identifying cancer biomarkers in human serum, making it possible to identify and characterize at the molecular level many proteins or peptides differentially expressed. In this paper we summarize the results of mass spectrometry serum profiling and biomarker identification in high mortality tumors, such as ovarian, liver, lung, and pancreatic cancer.
Reactive Pulsed Laser Deposition of Titanium Nitride Thin Films: Effect of Reactive Gas Pressure on the Structure, Composition, and Properties
Authors: Krishnan R. , David C. , Ajikumar P. K. , Nithya R. , Tripura Sundari S. , Dash S. , Panigrahi B. K. , Kamruddin M. , Tyagi A. K. , Jayaram Vikram , Raj Baldev
Published: January 2013

Titanium nitride (TiN) thin films were deposited by reactive pulsed laser deposition (RPLD) technique. For the first time, the composition evaluated from proton elastic backscattering spectrometry, in a quantitative manner, revealed a dependence on the partial pressure of nitrogen from 1 to 10 Pa. Grazing incidence-XRD (GI-XRD) confirmed the formation of predominantly nanocrystalline TiN phase with a crystallite size of around 30 nm. The hardness showed maximum value of ~30 GPa when the composition is near stoichiometric and the friction coefficient was found to be as low as 0.3. In addition, a systematic optical response was observed as a function of deposition pressure from the surface of the TiN films using spectroscopic ellipsometry.
Pharmacogenomics in Children: Advantages and Challenges of Next Generation Sequencing Applications
Authors: Vanakker O. M. , De Paepe A.
Published: January 2013

Pharmacogenetics is considered as a prime example of how personalized medicine nowadays can be put into practice. However, genotyping to guide pharmacological treatment is relatively uncommon in the routine clinical practice. Several reasons can be found why the application of pharmacogenetics is less than initially anticipated, which include the contradictory results obtained for certain variants and the lack of guidelines for clinical implementation. However, more reproducible results are being generated, and efforts have been made to establish working groups focussing on evidence-based clinical guidelines. For another pharmacogenetic hurdle, the speed by which a pharmacogenetic profile for a certain drug can be obtained in an individual patient, there has been a revolution in molecular genetics through the introduction of next generation sequencing (NGS), making it possible to sequence a large number of genes up to the complete genome in a single reaction. Besides the enthusiasm due to the tremendous increase of our sequencing capacities, several considerations need to be made regarding quality and interpretation of the sequence data as well as ethical aspects of this technology. This paper will focus on the different NGS applications that may be useful for pharmacogenomics in children and the challenges that they bring on.
and Models: A Self-Similar Approach
Authors: Belinchón José Antonio
Published: January 2013

We study the models and their particular case, the so-called -models under the self-similarity hypothesis. In particular, we calculate the exact form that each quantity may take in order that field equations (FEs) admit self-similar solutions. The methods employed allow us to obtain general results that are valid not only for the FRW metric, but also for all the Bianchi types as well as for the Kantowski-Sachs model (under the self-similarity hypothesis and the power-law hypothesis for the scale factors).
Performance of Bulk Heterojunction Solar Cells Fabricated Using Spray-Deposited Poly[[9-(1-octylnonyl)-9H-carbazole-2,7-diyl]-2,5-thiophenediyl-2,1,3-benzothiadiazole-4,7-diyl-2,5-thiophenediyl]/[6,6]-Phenyl C71 Butyric Acid Methyl Ester Blend Active Layers
Authors: No Im-Jun , Shin Paik-Kyun , Kannappan Santhakumar , Palanisamy Kumar , Ochiai Shizuyasu
Published: January 2013

The Poly[[9-(1-octylnonyl)-9H-carbazole-2,7-diyl]-2,5-thiophenediyl-2,1,3-benzothia diazole-4,7-diyl-2,5-thiophenediyl]/[6,6]-phenyl C71 butyric acid methyl ester blend active layers were prepared by spray deposition method with different preparative conditions. The active layers were prepared with and without TiOxlayer in order to study the property changes. The absorption and surface morphology of the active layers were analyzed using UV-visible spectral and atomic force microscopic studies. The photovoltaic cells were fabricated using the spray-coated active layers with and without TiOxlayer. The results were compared with the cells fabricated using the conventional spin-coated active layers.
Forecasting the Development of Different Solar Cell Technologies
Authors: Morales-Acevedo Arturo , Casados-Cruz Gaspar
Published: January 2013

Solar cells are made of several materials and device structures with the main goal of having maximum efficiency at low cost. Some types of solar cells have shown a rapid efficiency progress whereas others seem to remain constant as a consequence of different factors such as the technological and economic ones. Using information published by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) about the increase of solar cells record efficiency, we apply a simple mathematical model to estimate the evolution in the near future for the different cell technologies. Here, as an example, we use data for solar cells made with representative materials and structures of each of the three “PV generations.”
Dealing with the Surgical and Medical Challenges of Penetrating Brain Injuries
Authors: Syrmos Nikolaos , Ganau Mario , De Carlo Antonella , Prisco Lara , Ganau Laura , Valadakis Vasileios , Grigoriou Kostantinos , Iliadis Charalampos , Arvanitakis Dimitrios
Published: January 2013

Peacetime has reduced the overall incidence of penetrating brain injuries (PBI), and those related to missile penetration are not common anymore at least in western countries. Nevertheless, PBI still occur, and car crashes or work accidents are their main causes. The management of such cases is characterized by many challenges, not only from a surgical and medical point of view, but also for the different and sometimes bizarre dynamics by which they present. Herein we report an unusual deep penetrating brain injury, due to a high-energy crash against a metallic rod in a construction site, with a good surgical outcome despite dramatic clinical conditions on admission. A discussion of the surgical results and functional outcome related to PBI, as found in the English medical literature, is provided. Moreover the most common postoperative complications along with the diagnostic flow charts and therapeutic options useful to prevent inappropriate treatment are highlighted.
The Lateral Port Control Pharyngeal Flap: A Thirty-Year Evolution and Followup
Authors: Boutros Sean , Cutting Court
Published: January 2013

In 1971, Micheal Hogan introduced the Lateral Port Control Pharyngeal Flap (LPCPF) which obtained good results with elimination of VPI. However, there was a high incidence of hyponasality and OSA. We hypothesized that preoperative assessment with videofluoroscopy and nasal endoscopy would enable modification and customization of the LPCPF and result in improvement in the result in both hyponasality and obstructive apnea while still maintaining results in VPI. Thirty consecutive patients underwent customized LPCPF. All patients had preoperative diagnosis of VPI resulting from cleft palate. Patient underwent either videofluoroscopy or nasal endoscopy prior to the planning of surgery. Based on preoperative velar and pharyngeal movement, patients were assigned to wide, medium, or narrow port designs. Patients with significant lateral motion were given wide ports while patients with minimal movement were given narrow ports. There was a 96.66% success rate in the treatment of VPI with one patient with persistent VPI (3.33%). Six patients had mild hyponasality (20 %). Two patients had initial OSA (6.67%), one of which had OSA which lasted longer than six months (3.33%). The modifications of the original flap description have allowed for success in treatment of VPI along with an acceptably low rate of hyponasality and OSA.
A New Identity for Resolvents of Operators
Authors: Gil' Michael
Published: January 2013

A new identity for resolvents of operators is suggested. We show that in appropriate
situations it is more convenient than the Hilbert identity. In particular, we establish a new
invertibility condition for perturbed operators as well as new bounds for the spectrum of
perturbed operators. As a particular case we consider perturbations of Hilbert-Schmidt
operators.
Endomicroscopic Imaging of COX-2 Activity in Murine Sporadic and Colitis-Associated Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Foersch Sebastian , Neufert Clemens , Neurath Markus F. , Waldner Maximilian J.
Published: January 2013

Although several studies propose a chemopreventive effect of aspirin for colorectal cancer (CRC) development, the general use of aspirin cannot be recommended due to its adverse side effects. As the protective effect of aspirin has been associated with an increased expression of COX-2, molecular imaging of COX-2, for instance, during confocal endomicroscopy could enable the identification of patients who would possibly benefit from aspirin treatment. In this pilot trial, we used a COX-2-specific fluorescent probe for detection of colitis-associated and sporadic CRC in mice using confocal microscopy. Following the injection of the COX-2 probe into tumor-bearing APCmin mice or mice exposed to the AOM + DSS model of colitis-associated cancer, the tumor-specific upregulation of COX-2 could be validated with in vivo fluorescence imaging. Subsequent confocal imaging of tumor tissue showed an increased number of COX-2 expressing cells when compared to the normal mucosa of healthy controls. COX-2-expression was detectable with subcellular resolution in tumor cells and infiltrating stroma cells. These findings pose a proof of concept and suggest the use of CLE for the detection of COX-2 expression during colorectal cancer surveillance endoscopy. This could improve early detection and stratification of chemoprevention in patients with CRC.
Delivery Parameter Variations and Early Clinical Outcomes of Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy for 31 Prostate Cancer Patients: An Intercomparison of Three Treatment Planning Systems
Authors: Tsutsumi Shinichi , Hosono Masako N. , Tatsumi Daisaku , Miki Yoshitaka , Masuoka Yutaka , Ogino Ryo , Ishii Kentaro , Shimatani Yasuhiko , Miki Yukio
Published: January 2013

We created volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans for 31 prostate cancer patients using one of three treatment planning systems (TPSs)—ERGO++, Monaco, or Pinnacle—and then treated those patients. A dose of 74 Gy was prescribed to the planning target volume (PTV). The rectum, bladder, and femur were chosen as organs at risk (OARs) with specified dose‐volume constraints. Dose volume histograms (DVHs), the mean dose rate, the beam‐on time, and early treatment outcomes were evaluated and compared. The DVHs calculated for the three TPSs were comparable. The mean dose rates and beam‐on times for Ergo++, Monaco, and SmartArc were, respectively, 174.3 ± 17.7, 149.7 ± 8.4, and 185.8 ± 15.6 MU/min and 132.7 ± 8.4, 217.6 ± 13.1, and 127.5 ± 27.1 sec. During a follow‐up period of 486.2 ± 289.9 days, local recurrence was not observed, but distant metastasis was observed in a single patient. Adverse events of grade 3 to grade 4 were not observed. The mean dose rate for Monaco was significantly lower than that for ERGO++ and SmartArc (P < 0.0001), and the beam‐on time for Monaco was significantly longer than that for ERGO++ and SmartArc (P < 0.0001). Each TPS was successfully used for prostate VMAT planning without significant differences in early clinical outcomes despite significant TPS‐specific delivery parameter variations.
End-to-End Image Simulator for Optical Imaging Systems: Equations and Simulation Examples
Authors: Coppo Peter , Chiarantini Leandro , Alparone Luciano
Published: January 2013

The theoretical description of a simplified end-to-end software tool for simulation of data produced by optical instruments, starting from either synthetic or airborne hyperspectral data, is described and some simulation examples of hyperspectral and panchromatic images for existing and future design instruments are also reported. High spatial/spectral resolution images with low intrinsic noise and the sensor/mission specifications are used as inputs for the simulations. The examples reported in this paper show the capabilities of the tool for simulating target detection scenarios, data quality assessment with respect to classification performance and class discrimination, impact of optical design on image quality, and 3D modelling of optical performances. The simulator is conceived as a tool (during phase 0/A) for the specification and early development of new Earth observation optical instruments, whose compliance to user’s requirements is achieved through a process of cost/performance trade-off. The Selex Galileo simulator, as compared with other existing image simulators for phase C/D projects of space-borne instruments, implements all modules necessary for a complete panchromatic and hyper spectral image simulation, and it allows excellent flexibility and expandability for new integrated functions because of the adopted IDL-ENVI software environment.
Porphyromonas gingivalisOuter Membrane Vesicles Mediate Coaggregation and Piggybacking ofTreponema denticolaandLachnoanaerobaculum saburreum
Authors: Grenier Daniel
Published: January 2013

Porphyromonas gingivalissheds outer membrane vesicles that contain several virulence factors, including adhesins. In this study, we investigated the ability ofP. gingivalisouter membrane vesicles to mediate the coaggregation and piggybacking ofTreponema denticolaandLachnoanaerobaculum saburreum. Marked coaggregation betweenT. denticolaandL. saburreumoccurred in the presence ofP. gingivalisouter membrane vesicles. Sucrose was an effective chemoattractant for the motile speciesT. denticola. The addition of outer membrane vesicles to a mixture ofT. denticolaandL. saburreumsignificantly increased the number of nonmotile bacteria that migrated into a sucrose-filled capillary tube immersed in the bacterial mixture. Under optimal conditions, the number of nonmotileL. saburreumin the capillary tube increased approximately 5-fold, whereas no increase occurred when boiled vesicles were used. This study showed thatP. gingivalisouter membrane vesicles mediate coaggregation betweenT. denticolaandL. saburreumand that nonmotile bacteria can be translocated by piggybacking on spirochetes.
Recovery after Delayed Surgery in a Case of Spinal Subdural Hematoma
Authors: Panciani Pier Paolo , Cornali Claudio , Agnoletti Alessandro , Esposito Giacomo , Ronchetti Gabriele , Fontanella Marco
Published: January 2013

Spinal chronic subdural hematoma (SCSH) is a rare pathology usually associated with trauma or hematological alterations or is due to iatrogenic causes; rarely SCSH can be spontaneous. We report a case of a 79-year-old female who underwent a surgical evacuation of a spontaneous SCSH one year after diagnosis. She presented with a severe paraparesis and showed a considerable improvement in sensory-motor performances after surgery. The treatment of spontaneous SCSH is not well defined and universally accepted. Early surgery is mandatory in cases presenting with severe deficits. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case showing a good outcome in a case of SCSH following a delayed surgery. In our opinion, an aggressive approach should be considered as a viable option in cases of spontaneous SCSH even after a lasting spinal cord compression.
An Unusual Complication in Osteonecrosis of Femoral Head: A Case Report
Authors: Vaidyanathan Singaravadivelu , Murugan Yuvaraja , Paulraj Kingsly
Published: January 2013

We report a case of fracture of femoral head occurring in the setting of underlying osteonecrosis following a low-energy trauma in a middle-aged male. Patient also has underlying pelvic pathology from a previous trauma. The possible mechanism of injury is discussed. Extensive literature search reveals that this is the first report of a fracture in an osteonecrotic femoral head.
Positive Solutions for a Fourth-Order Boundary Value Problem
Authors: Wang Kun , Yang Zhilin
Published: January 2013

This paper deals with the existence and multiplicity of positive solutions for the fourth-order boundary value problemu(4)=f(t,u,u′,−u′′, u′′′),u(0)=u′(1)=u′′′(0)=u′′(1)=0. Heref∈C([0,1]×ℝ+4,ℝ+)(ℝ+:=[0,+∞)). We use fixed point index theory to establish our main results based on a priori estimates achieved by utilizing some integral identities and integral inequalities.
Radio Number for Total Graph of Paths
Authors: Vaidya S. K. , Bantva D. D.
Published: January 2013

A radio labeling of a graph is a function from the vertex set to the set of nonnegative integers such that , where and are diameter and distance between and in graph , respectively. The radio number of is the smallest number such that has radio labeling with . We investigate radio number for total graph of paths.
Symmetry Reduction of the Two-Dimensional Ricci Flow Equation
Authors: Nadjafikhah Mehdi , Jafari Mehdi
Published: January 2013

This paper is devoted to obtain the one-dimensional group invariant solutions of the two-dimensional Ricci flow ((2D) Rf) equation. By classifying the orbits of the adjoint representation of the symmetry group on its Lie algebra, the optimal system of one-dimensional subalgebras of the ((2D) Rf) equation is obtained. For each class, we will find the reduced equation by the method of similarity reduction. By solving these reduced equations, we will obtain new sets of group invariant solutions for the ((2D) Rf) equation.
Multicystic Hepatocarcinoma Mimicking Liver Abscess
Authors: Falidas Evangelos , Pazidis Angelos , Anyfantakis Georgios , Vlachos Konstantinos , Goudeli Christina , Villias Constantinos
Published: January 2013

The diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) became easier in relation to the improved radiological examinations; however, the neoplasm may occur under atypical presentations mimicking other benign or malignant processes. Multicystic HCC mimicking a liver abscess associated with septic-type fever and leukocytosis is rare, has a poor prognosis, and poses diagnostic and therapeutic dilemmas. We present the case of an 80-year-old patient, who presented with fever, leukocytosis, and large cystic masses involving right and left lobes of the liver initially considered abscesses and finally diagnosed as HCC after open drainage and liver biopsy. Although the patient died on the tenth postoperative day due to pulmonary oedema, the authors emphasize the high index of suspicion needed in the diagnosis of this unusual presentation of HCC.
Bioreducible PEI‐siRNA Nanocomplex for Liver Cancer Therapy: Transfection, Biodistribution, and Tumor Growth Inhibition In Vivo
Authors: Xia Wei , Li Yan , Lou Bo , Wang Peijun , Gao Xiaolong , Lin Chao
Published: January 2013

A bioreducible polyethylenimine (SS‐PEI) was successfully applied as a nonviral carrier for the delivery of plasmid DNA and VEGF‐siRNA in vitro and in vivo. The SS‐PEI could strongly condense DNA or siRNA into nanosized complexes (below 200 nm) with positive surface charges. In vitro transfection experiments using GFP plasmid as gene reporter showed that the complexes of SS‐PEI/DNA were able to efficiently transfect HepG2 cells, with efficiency comparable to that of polyethylenimine, a gold standard for nonviral gene delivery. Moreover, the complexes of SS‐PEI/VEGF‐siRNA could lead to reduced levels of VEGF protein in HepG2 cells in vitro. Treatment with the complexes of SS‐PEI/VEGF‐siRNA efficiently inhibited HepG2 tumor growth in an xenograft mouse model. The data of this study imply that the SS‐PEI is a potent nucleic acid carrier applicable for liver cancer gene therapy.
Characteristics of COPD Patients Enrolled into Rehabilitation Programme in Copenhagen
Authors: Jacobsen Ramune , Rusch Ea , Frølich Anne , Andersen Per Kragh , Godftredsen Nina
Published: January 2013

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a recommended standard of care for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), as it improves exercise capacity and health-related quality of life (HRQOL), attenuates perceived dyspnoea, and decreases the need for hospitalisation. The objective of this study was to compare medical and sociodemographic characteristics of COPD patients who were enrolled and completed the PR with those of COPD patients who were resident in the same municipality but were not enrolled into this PR. The data used for comparison came from the Danish National Registers. The COPD patients who were enrolled and completed the rehabilitation differed from COPD patients who were not enrolled into the rehabilitation in the following: (1) there were more women than men among those who were enrolled; (2) those who were enrolled had higher socioeconomic status compared to those who were not enrolled; and (3) those who were enrolled into the rehabilitation used more COPD-specific medication compared to those who were not enrolled. In conclusion, to enrol more COPD patients into PR, special attention needs to be paid to COPD patients from lower socioeconomic status groups as well as male patients.
Building Intercultural Competence One “Patch” at a Time
Authors: Spooner-Lane Rebecca , Tangen Donna , Mercer K. Louise , Hepple Erika , Carrington Suzanne
Published: January 2013

This paper describes a program calledPatchesthat was implemented to assist a group of Australian and Malaysian pre-service teachers to enhance their intercultural competence through their involvement in a series of reciprocal learning activities. Each learning experience was considered a “patch” that eventually created a “quilt of intercultural learning.” The purpose of this study was to enhance the intercultural competence of domestic and international students through organized intercultural activities, through a series of reflective writing sessions, and mutual engagement on a common project. The effectiveness of thePatchesprogram was analysed in accordance with Deardorff’s elements of intercultural competence. The qualitative findings indicate that both cohorts of preservice teachers showed elements of intercultural competence through participation in the program, with both groups reporting a deeper appreciation and understanding of how to communicate more effectively in intercultural contexts.
Synthesis, Spectroscopy, and Magnetic Characterization of Copper(II) and Cobalt(II) Complexes with 2-Amino-5-bromopyridine as Ligand
Authors: Arab Ahmadi Raziyeh , Hasanvand Farshideh , Bruno Giuseppe , Amiri Rudbari Hadi , Amani Saeid
Published: January 2013

The synthesis, spectroscopic, and magnetic characterization of two new copper(II) and cobalt(II) complexes are described. Both two compounds have the general formula [M(L)2(Cl)2], in which L= 2-amino-5-bromopyridine. These complexes were prepared in one-step synthesis and characterized by elemental analysis, FTIR, UV-Vis, and EPR spectroscopy. Moreover, the single crystal structure of complex (1) was studied by the X-ray diffraction method. This compound consists of mononuclear units consisting of two ligands linked to metal via the nitrogen of pyridine ring. The UV-Vis spectra of copper(II) and cobalt(II) complexes show three and five absorption bands, respectively, attributed to the d-d transition of the metal ion, ligand → metal charge transfer, and π→π∗ or n→π∗ transitions of the ligand. The FTIR spectra show MN2Cl2 vibrations at 500–300 cm−1. The complexes show room temperature magnetic moments of 1.78 BM and 4.12 BM for Cu(II) and Co(II), respectively. The X-band electron spin resonance (ESR) spectra of Cu(II) complex in DMF or DMSO frozen at liquid nitrogen temperature show the typical ΔMS=±1 transition.
Therapeutic Communities for Addictions: A Review of Their Effectiveness from a Recovery‐Oriented Perspective
Authors: Vanderplasschen Wouter , Colpaert Kathy , Autrique Mieke , Rapp Richard Charles , Pearce Steve , Broekaert Eric , Vandevelde Stijn
Published: January 2013

Therapeutic communities (TCs) for addictions are drug‐free environments in which people with addictive problems live together in an organized and structured way to promote change toward recovery and reinsertion in society. Despite a long research tradition in TCs, the evidence base for the effectiveness of TCs is limited according to available reviews. Since most of these studies applied a selective focus, we made a comprehensive systematic review of all controlled studies that compared the effectiveness of TCs for addictions with that of a control condition. The focus of this paper is on recovery, including attention for various life domains and a longitudinal scope. We searched the following databases: ISI Web of Knowledge (WoS), PubMed, and DrugScope. Our search strategy revealed 997 hits. Eventually, 30 publications were selected for this paper, which were based on 16 original studies. Two out of three studies showed significantly better substance use and legal outcomes among TC participants, and five studies found superior employment and psychological functioning. Length of stay in treatment and participation in subsequent aftercare were consistent predictors of recovery status. We conclude that TCs can promote change regarding various outcome categories. Since recovering addicts often cycle between abstinence and relapse, a continuing care approach is advisable, including assessment of multiple and subjective outcome indicators.
Common Fixed Points in a Partially Ordered Partial Metric Space
Authors: Paesano Daniela , Vetro Pasquale
Published: January 2013

In the first part of this paper, we prove some generalized versions of the result of Matthews in (Matthews, 1994) using different types of conditions in partially ordered partial metric spaces for dominated self-mappings or in partial metric spaces for self-mappings. In the second part, using our results, we deduce a characterization of partial metric 0-completeness in terms of fixed point theory. This result extends the Subrahmanyam characterization of metric completeness.
Decomposable Convexities in Graphs and Hypergraphs
Authors: Malvestuto Francesco M.
Published: January 2013

Given a connected hypergraph with vertex set V, a convexity space on is a subset
of the powerset of V that contains ∅, V, and the singletons; furthermore, is closed under intersection and every set in is connected in . The members of are called convex sets. The convex hull of a subset X of V is the smallest convex set containing X. By a cluster of we mean any nonempty subset of V in which every two vertices are separated by no convex set. We say that a convexity space on is decomposable if it satisfies the following three axioms: (i) the maximal clusters of form an acyclic hypergraph, (ii) every maximal cluster of is a convex set, and (iii) for every nonempty vertex set X, a vertex does not belong to the convex hull of X if and only if it is separated from X by a convex cluster. We prove that a decomposable convexity space on is fully specified by the maximal clusters of in that (1) there is a closed formula which expresses the convex hull of a set in terms of certain convex clusters of and (2) is a convex geometry if and only if the subspaces of induced by maximal clusters of are all convex geometries. Finally, we prove the decomposability of some known convexities in graphs and hypergraphs taken from the literature (such as “monophonic” and “canonical” convexities in hypergraphs and “all-paths” convexity in graphs).
Emerging Molecular Targets for Brain Repair after Stroke
Authors: Krupinski Jerzy , Slevin Mark
Published: January 2013

The field of neuroprotection generated consistent preclinical findings of mechanisms of cell death but these failed to be translated into clinics. The approaches that combine the modulation of the inhibitory environment together with the promotion of intrinsic axonal outgrowth needs further work before combined therapeutic strategies will be transferable to clinic trials. It is likely that only when some answers have been found to these issues will our therapeutic efforts meet our expectations. Stroke is a clinically heterogeneous disease and combinatorial treatments require much greater work in pharmacological and toxicological testing. Advances in genetics and results of the Whole Human Genome Project (HGP) provided new unknown information in relation to stroke. Genetic factors are not the only determinants of responses to some diseases. It was recognized early on that “epigenetic” factors were major players in the aetiology and progression of many diseases like stroke. The major players are microRNAs that represent the best-characterized subclass of noncoding RNAs. Epigenetic mechanisms convert environmental conditions and physiological stresses into long-term changes in gene expression and translation. Epigenetics in stroke are in their infancy but offer great promise for better understanding of stroke pathology and the potential viability of new strategies for its treatment.
Information Content of Seasonal Forecasts in a Changing Climate
Authors: Krakauer Nir Y. , Grossberg Michael D. , Gladkova Irina , Aizenman Hannah
Published: January 2013

We study the potential value to stakeholders of probabilistic long-term forecasts, as quantified by the mean information gain of the forecast compared to climatology. We use as a case study the USA Climate Prediction Center (CPC) forecasts of 3-month temperature and precipitation anomalies made at 0.5-month lead time since 1995. Mean information gain was positive but low (about 2% and 0.5% of the maximum possible for temperature and precipitation forecasts, resp.) and has not increased over time. Information-based skill scores showed similar patterns to other, non-information-based, skill scores commonly used for evaluating seasonal forecasts but tended to be smaller, suggesting that information gain is a particularly stringent measure of forecast quality. We also present a new decomposition of forecast information gain into Confidence, Forecast Miscalibration, and Climatology Miscalibration components. Based on this decomposition, the CPC forecasts for temperature are on average underconfident while the precipitation forecasts are overconfident. We apply a probabilistic trend extrapolation method to provide an improved reference seasonal forecast, compared to the current CPC procedure which uses climatology from a recent 30-year period. We show that combining the CPC forecast with the probabilistic trend extrapolation more than doubles the mean information gain, providing one simple avenue for increasing forecast skill.
The Use of Radiation Therapy in the Management of Selected Patients with Atypical Lipomas
Authors: Kang Josephine , Botros Maikel , Goldberg Saveli , Giraud Christine , Nielsen G. Petur , Chen Yen-Lin , Raskin Kevin , Schwab Joseph , Yoon Sam S. , Hornicek Francis J. , DeLaney Thomas F.
Published: January 2013

Background and Objectives. Atypical lipomas are uncommon, slow-growing benign tumors. While surgery has been the primary treatment modality, we have managed some patients with radiation (RT) as a component of the treatment and have reported their outcomes in this study.Methods. A retrospective review of all cases of extremity and trunk atypical lipomas in The Sarcoma Database at the study institution was conducted.Results. Thirteen patients were identified. All patients underwent surgical resection at initial presentation and received pre- or postoperative radiation for subtotal resection (n=2), local recurrence (n=8), or progressive disease (n=3). The median total radiation dose was 50 Gy. Median followup was 65.1 months. All patients treated with RT remained free of disease at the last followup. No grade 3 or higher late toxicity from radiation was observed. No cases of tumor dedifferentiation occurred.Conclusion. For recurrent or residual atypical lipomas, a combination of reexcision and RT can provide long-term local control with acceptable morbidity. For recurrent tumors, pre-op RT of 50 Gy appears to be an effective and well-tolerated management approach.
Cellular Factors Implicated in Filovirus Entry
Authors: Bhattacharyya Suchita , Hope Thomas J.
Published: January 2013

Although filoviral infections are still occurring in different parts of the world, there are no effective preventive or treatment strategies currently available against them. Not only do filoviruses cause a deadly infection, but they also have the potential of being used as biological weapons. This makes it imperative to comprehensively study these viruses in order to devise effective strategies to prevent the occurrence of these infections. Entry is the foremost step in the filoviral replication cycle and different studies have reported the involvement of a myriad of cellular factors including plasma membrane components, cytoskeletal proteins, endosomal components, and cytosolic factors in this process. Signaling molecules such as the TAM family of receptor tyrosine kinases comprising of Tyro3, Axl, and Mer have also been implicated as putative entry factors. Additionally, filoviruses are suggested to bind to a common receptor and recent studies have proposed T-cell immunoglobulin and mucin domain 1 (TIM-1) and Niemann-Pick C1 (NPC1) as potential receptor candidates. This paper summarizes the existing literature on filoviral entry with a special focus on cellular factors involved in this process and also highlights some fundamental questions. Future research aimed at answering these questions could be very useful in designing novel antiviral therapeutics.
Electrophoretic Deposition of Aluminum Nitride from Its Suspension in Acetylacetone Using Iodine as an Additive
Authors: Workie Bizuneh , McCandless Brian E. , Gebeyehu Zewdu
Published: January 2013

We have studied electrophoretic deposition of AlN from its suspension in acetylacetone with I2 as an additive. AlN powder with particle size <10 μm is dispersed to produce a positive charge and deposited on the cathode by applying fields greater than 10 V/cm between the electrodes. X‐ray diffraction and FTIR studies indicate that the AlN before and after deposition has the same composition and structure. An increase in the amount of AlN in the suspension, the deposition potential, and the deposition time results in a linear increase in the weight of the AlN deposited. Electrophoretic deposition from 10 g/L AlN suspension shows an initial increase in the weight of AlN deposited with the concentration of I2, and the weight of AlN decreases after reaching a maximum at 0.20 g/L I2.
Aerobiology and Its Role in the Transmission of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Fernstrom Aaron , Goldblatt Michael
Published: January 2013

Aerobiology plays a fundamental role in the transmission of infectious diseases. As infectious disease and infection control practitioners continue employing contemporary techniques (e.g., computational fluid dynamics to study particle flow, polymerase chain reaction methodologies to quantify particle concentrations in various settings, and epidemiology to track the spread of disease), the central variables affecting the airborne transmission of pathogens are becoming better known. This paper reviews many of these aerobiological variables (e.g., particle size, particle type, the duration that particles can remain airborne, the distance that particles can travel, and meteorological and environmental factors), as well as the common origins of these infectious particles. We then review several real-world settings with known difficulties controlling the airborne transmission of infectious particles (e.g., office buildings, healthcare facilities, and commercial airplanes), while detailing the respective measures each of these industries is undertaking in its effort to ameliorate the transmission of airborne infectious diseases.
Sufficient Conditions for Meromorphically p-Valent Starlikeness and Close-to-Convexity
Authors: Frasin B. A. , Al-Hawary Tariq , Darus M.
Published: January 2013

Making use of the linear operator Iλm defined by (Frasin 2012), we introduce the class 𝕄p,jm(λ,μ,α) of meromorphically p-valent functions in the punctured unit disk 𝒰∗. Furthermore, we obtain some sufficient conditions for starlikeness and close-to-convexity for functions belonging to this class. Several corollaries and consequences of the main results are also considered.
Pretreatment Hepatoprotective Effect of the Marine Fungus Derived from Sponge on Hepatic Toxicity Induced by Heavy Metals in Rats
Authors: Abdel-Monem Nehad M. , Abdel-Azeem Ahmed M. , El-Ashry El-Sayed H. , Ghareeb Doaa A. , Nabil-adam Asmaa
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the pretreatment hepatoprotective effect of the extract of marine-derived fungusTrichurus spiralisHasselbr (TS) isolated fromHippospongia communissponge on hepatotoxicity. Twenty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four groups (n=7). Group I served as −ve control, group II served as the induced group receiving subcutaneously for seven days 0.25 mg heavy metal mixtures, group III received (i.p.) TS extract of dose 40 mg for seven days, and group IV served as the protected group pretreated with TS extract for seven days as a protection dose, and then treated with the heavy metal-mixture. The main pathological changes within the liver after heavy-metal mixtures administrations marked hepatic damage evidenced by foci of lobular necrosis with neutrophilic infiltration, adjacent to dysplastic hepatocytes. ALT and AST measurements show a significant increase in group II by 46.20% and 45.12%, respectively. Total protein, elevated by about 38.9% in induction group compared to the −ve control group, in contrast to albumin, decreased as a consequence of metal administration with significant elevation on bilirubin level. The results prove that TS extract possesses a hepatoprotective property due to its proven antioxidant and free-radical scavenging properties.
Certain Inequalities of Multivalent Analytic Functions with Missing Coefficients
Authors: Cang Yi-Ling , Yan Cai-Mei
Published: January 2013

The purpose of the present paper is to derive the radius of starlikeness for certain p-valent functions with missing coefficients. The results obtained here are sharp.
Some Variational Principles for Coupled Thermoelasticity
Authors: Marotti de Sciarra Francesco
Published: January 2013

The nonlinear thermoelasticity of type II proposed by Green and Naghdi is considered. The thermoelastic structural model is formulated in a quasistatic range, and the related thermoelastic variational formulation in the complete set of state variables is recovered. Hence a consistent framework to derive all the variational formulations with different combinations of the state variables is provided, and a family of mixed variational formulations, with different combinations of state variables, is provided starting from the general variational formulation. A uniqueness condition is provided on the basis of a suitable variational formulation.
Compression of Multilayered Composite Electrospun Scaffolds: A Novel Strategy to Rapidly Enhance Mechanical Properties and Three Dimensionality of Bone Scaffolds
Authors: Madurantakam Parthasarathy A. , Rodriguez Isaac A. , Garg Koyal , McCool Jennifer M. , Moon Peter C. , Bowlin Gary L.
Published: January 2013

One major limitation of electrospun scaffolds intended for bone tissue engineering is their inferior mechanical properties. The present study introduces a novel strategy to engineer stiffer scaffolds by stacking multiple layers and cold welding them under high pressure. Electrospun polydioxanone (PDO) and PDO:nanohydroxyapatite (PDO:nHA) scaffolds (1, 2, or 4 layered stacks) were compressed either before or after mineralizing treatment with simulated body fluid (SBF). After two weeks in SBF, scaffolds were analyzed for total mineral content and stiffness by Alizarin red S and uniaxial tensile testing, respectively. Scaffolds were also analyzed for permeability, pore size, and fiber diameter. Results indicated that compression of multiple layers significantly increased the stiffness of scaffolds while reducing mineralization and permeability. This phenomenon was attributed to increased density of fibers and loss of surface area due to fiber welding. Statistics revealed, the 4-layered PDO:nHA scaffold compressed first followed by mineralization in revised SBF had maximal stiffness, low permeability and pore size, and mineralization second only to noncompressed scaffolds. Within the limitations of permeability and pore size, this scaffold configuration represents an optimal midway for desired stiffness and mineral content for bone tissue engineering.
The Tutte-Grothendieck Group of an Alphabetic Rewriting System
Authors: Poinsot Laurent
Published: January 2013

The two operations, deletion and contraction of an edge, on multigraphs directly lead to the Tutte polynomial which satisfies a universal problem. As observed by Brylawski (1972) in terms of order relations, these operations may be interpreted as a particular instance of a general theory which involves universal invariants like the Tutte polynomial and a universal group, called the Tutte-Grothendieck group. In this contribution, Brylawski’s theory is extended in two ways: first of all, the order relation is replaced by a string rewriting system, and secondly, commutativity by partial commutations (that permits a kind of interpolation between noncommutativity and full commutativity). This allows us to clarify the relations between the semigroup subject to rewriting and the Tutte-Grothendieck group: the latter is actually the Grothendieck group completion of the former, up to the free adjunction of a unit (this was not even mentioned by Brylawski), and normal forms may be seen as universal invariants. Moreover we prove that such universal constructions are also possible in case of a nonconvergent rewriting system, outside the scope of Brylawski’s work.
A Case of Multiple Sclerosis and Celiac Disease
Authors: Batur-Caglayan H. Z. , Irkec C. , Yildirim-Capraz I. , Atalay-Akyurek N. , Dumlu S.
Published: January 2013

Objectives. Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory autoimmune disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). Since a correlation between gluten intake and incidence of MS had been reported, the relationship of antigliadin antibodies and MS was debated.Case Report. We report the case of a 45-year-old female MS patient who is under interferon treatment. After seven years of monitoring, during her routine gastroenterological assessment, she was diagnosed with celiac disease.Conclusion. Beside the neurological manifestations that have been demonstrated in about 10% of celiac disease (CD) patients, white-matter abnormalities in brain MRI are uncommon and controversial. But in the literature, MS seems to be associated with CD as in our patient. We suggest that MS patients with gastroenterological complaints should undergo an assessment for CD.
Evaluation of SAR Distribution in Six-Layer Human Head Model
Authors: Lak Asma , Oraizi Homayoon
Published: January 2013

The interaction between human head model and electromagnetic field sources is studied. The head models are composed of one and six layers. The six layers are skin, fat, bone, dura (the outer membrane of brain and spinal cord), CSF (colony stimulating factor), and brain. An antenna as a source of exposure is simulated too. The E-field strength distribution in both one- and six-layer human models is shown to estimate the intensity of E-field penetration in human head. Like standard models, the antenna is situated near the head model at a distance of 5 mm. The local and average SARs (specific absorption rates) are simulated at 900 MHz in both human head models. The results are then compared between the two models. The HFSS software is used for all the simulations. The paper wants to show that the initial model (one layer) is not a good model, because the real human head tissue is not equivalently modeled. It seems that the values of one-layer model are not reliable, so the paper considers the better and more similar human head model and compares these two models.
Prenatal Diagnosis of Bilateral Ectrodactyly and Radial Agenesis Associated with Trisomy 10 Mosaicism
Authors: Lévy Jonathan , Jouannic Jean-Marie , Saada Julien , Dhombres Ferdinand , Siffroi Jean-Pierre , Portnoï Marie-France
Published: January 2013

Ectrodactyly or split hand and foot malformations (SHFMs) are rare malformations of the limbs, characterized by median clefts of the hands and feet, syndactyly, and aplasia and/or hypoplasia of the phalanges. They represent a clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorder, with both sporadic and familial cases. Most of the genomic rearrangements identified to date in some forms of SHFM are autosomal dominant traits, involving various chromosome regions. Bilateral radial ray defects comprise also a large heterogenous group of disorders, including trisomy 18, Fanconi anemia, and thrombocytopenia-absent-radius syndrome, not commonly associated with ectrodactyly. The present paper describes a case of ectrodactyly associated with bilateral radial ray defects, diagnosed in the first trimester of pregnancy, in a fetus affected by trisomy 10. Only four cases of sporadic and isolated ectrodactyly, diagnosed by ultrasonography between 14 and 22 weeks’ gestation, have been reported. To our knowledge, the present case is the first report of mosaic trisomy 10 associated with SHFM and radial aplasia. Trisomy 10 is a rare lethal chromosomal abnormality, most frequently found in abortion products. Only six liveborn mosaic trisomy 10 infants, with severe malformations, dead in early infancy, have been reported. A severe clinical syndrome can be defined, comprising ear abnormalities, cleft lip/palate, malformations of eyes, heart, and kidneys, and deformity of hands and feet and most often associated with death neonatally or in early infancy.
Sand Piles Models of Signed Partitions with Piles
Authors: Bisi C. , Chiaselotti G. , Oliverio P. A.
Published: January 2013

Let be nonnegative integers. In this paper we study the basic properties of a discrete dynamical model of signed integer partitions that we denote by . A generic element of this model is a signed integer partition with exactly all distinct nonzero parts, whose maximum positive summand is not exceeding and whose minimum negative summand is not less than . In particular, we determine the covering relations, the rank function, and the parallel convergence time from the bottom to the top of by using an abstract Sand Piles Model with three evolution rules. The lattice was introduced by the first two authors in order to study some combinatorial extremal sum problems.
Approximate Equilibrium Problems and Fixed Points
Authors: Mazaheri H. , Mohsenalhosseini S. A. M.
Published: January 2013

We find a common element of the set of fixed points of a map and the set of solutions of an approximate equilibrium problem in a Hilbert space. Then, we show that one of the sequences weakly converges. Also we obtain some theorems about equilibrium problems and fixed points.